Overview

Aponogeton distachyos is a floating aquatic in the genus Aponogeton, part of the Aponogetonaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around Up to 10 cm tall and 0.5-1 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Aponogeton distachyos grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include aquatic gardens, ponds and aquariums.

About

Aponogeton distachyos, commonly known as water hawthorn or Cape asparagus, is a floating aquatic plant from the Aponogetonaceae family. It is deciduous and grows up to 10 cm tall with a spread of 0.5 to 1 metre, reaching full height over 5 to 10 years. This plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and can be grown in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand, with acid, alkaline, or neutral pH. It is suitable for aquatic gardens, ponds, and aquariums, offering interest during the winter season.

About the genus

The Aponogetonaceae are a family of flowering plants in the order Alismatales.

Wikipedia contributors, "Aponogeton", CC BY-SA 4.0Aponogeton

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Aponogeton

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Poorly-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Aponogeton distachyos size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Aquatic
Habit
Floating
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
Up to 10 cm
Spread
0.5-1 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Aquatic gardens, Ponds, Aquariums

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Aponogeton distachyos

Propagation
Tubers, Seeds
Pest resistance
Water snails
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Aponogeton distachyos?

Aponogeton distachyos prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Aponogeton distachyos need?

Aponogeton distachyos is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays poorly-drained.

How big does Aponogeton distachyos grow?

Aponogeton distachyos reaches a height of Up to 10 cm and a spread of 0.5-1 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.

Is Aponogeton distachyos hardy in the UK?

Aponogeton distachyos has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Aponogeton distachyos?

Tubers, Seeds.

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