Bull-tongue Arrowhead (Sagittaria lancifolia)

Bull-tongue Arrowhead

Also known as: Bulltongue Arrowhead, Lanceleaf Arrowhead, Bulltongue

Bull-tongue Arrowhead (Sagittaria lancifolia) is a flowering perennial native to the southeastern United States. It's commonly found in swamps, ditches, around lakes and streams, and in other shallow-water habitats and acts as a vital link in swampland ecosystems. The bull-tongue Arrowhead disappears in the winter but erupts from the soil again in the spring.

Scientific classification

Species

Bull-tongue Arrowhead (Sagittaria lancifolia)

Water plantains and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

91 cm to 1.5 m

Plant Height

30 cm to 90 cm

Spread

Deciduous

Leaf type

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Summer, Fall

Growth Season

Images of Bull-tongue Arrowhead

Distribution of Bull-tongue Arrowhead

Distribution Map

The plant bull-tongue Arrowhead, commonly cultivated, is native to tropical and subtropical regions of North America, the Caribbean, and northern parts of South America. It has also been introduced to parts of Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe, expanding its presence beyond its original habitats. This species thrives in wetland environments within these broad geographic areas.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Low elevations in shallow water on the fringe of ponds, lakes, streams and wet ditches.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Bull-tongue Arrowhead

Basal leaves up to 3 feet (91 cm) tall with arrowhead-shaped blades.

White flowers, 3/4 to 1 inch (2 to 2.5 cm) in diameter, bloom late spring to summer.

Brown achenes obovoid to oval, 1.5-2.7 mm (0.06-0.11 inches) in length.

Dark green arrow-shaped leaves with lanceolate form and long petioles.

Distinct grooved, winged achenes that aid in buoyancy and water dispersal.

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Care Guide for Bull-tongue Arrowhead

Twice per week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

5 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Bull-tongue Arrowhead prefers moist environments and can withstand short flooding periods. For optimal growth, water bull-tongue Arrowhead twice weekly to keep the soil consistently moist. This aquatic perennial is well-suited for rain gardens and pond margins, adapting to seasonal rainfall variations.

Pruning: Bull-tongue Arrowhead has lance-shaped leaves and prefers wetland environments. Prune in early to late spring to remove dead foliage and enhance airflow. Trim flowering stems post-bloom for more flowers. Clean tools to prevent disease. Pruning encourages healthy growth and manages size and shape.

Propagation: Bull-tongue Arrowhead thrives in wet or boggy soils and propagates best through rhizome division. Careful handling of roots is crucial to avoid damage during separation. Maintaining high moisture levels after transplanting is essential for successful growth in similar environments.

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