Overview
Sagittaria latifolia is a clump forming aquatic in the genus Sagittaria, part of the Alismataceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 0.5-1 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 5-10 years. Sagittaria latifolia grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. It is native to S Canada to W South America.
About
Sagittaria latifolia is a perennial plant that thrives in shallow waters. It features arrow-shaped foliage that can grow up to 30 cm long. During the summer, it produces racemes bearing clusters of white flowers, each measuring about 4 cm in diameter.
About the genus
Sagittaria comprises both marginal and submerged aquatic plants, which can be either tuberous perennials or annuals. These species feature linear, lanceolate, or arrow-like foliage and produce clusters of white, three-petaled flowers during the summer months.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Sagittaria
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Poorly-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Sagittaria latifolia size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Aquatic
- Habit
- Clump forming
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 0.5-1 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 5-10 years
- Native to
- S Canada to W South America
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Sagittaria latifolia
- Cultivation
- This plant is listed on Schedule 9 of the UK Wildlife & Countryside Act as an invasive non-native species. Although not banned from sale, it is an offence to plant or cause these to grow in the wild IN ENGLAND AND WALES. Gardeners possessing them should undertake measures to control them. See RHS advice on invasive non-native species for further information
- Propagation
- Please see cultivation notes
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to water lily aphids
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
How do I grow Sagittaria latifolia?
This plant is listed on Schedule 9 of the UK Wildlife & Countryside Act as an invasive non-native species. Although not banned from sale, it is an offence to plant or cause these to grow in the wild IN ENGLAND AND WALES. Gardeners possessing them should undertake measures to control them. See RHS advice on invasive non-native species for further information.
Where is the best place to plant Sagittaria latifolia?
Sagittaria latifolia prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Sagittaria latifolia need?
Sagittaria latifolia 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 Sagittaria latifolia grow?
Sagittaria latifolia reaches a height of 0.5-1 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 5-10 years to reach full size.
Is Sagittaria latifolia hardy in the UK?
Sagittaria latifolia has a UK hardiness rating of H6.
How do I propagate Sagittaria latifolia?
Please see cultivation notes.