Description
Egeria –
There are 2 species of semi evergreen and evergreen, marginal to deep water aquatic perennials, in this genus. They occur in still or slow moving water in South America. Multi-branched stems bear linear to narrowly oblong leaves in whorls or opposite pairs. Cymes of 2-5 white, 3-parted male flowers, and much smaller females, are borne within tubular, translucent spathes in summer. Use to help maintain nutrient balance in the water of cold water to tropical aquarium.
In an aquarium, grow in an inert, sandy medium in full light with a temperature of 41-64 degrees Fahrenheit. Outdoors, grow in full sun in water 1-3′ feet deep, rooted into the muddy bottom, or in an aquatic container of soil based potting mix topped with gravel. Trim regularly to encourage fresh young growth.
Prone to damage by snails or fish.
E. densa – Anaacharis densa – Elodea densa – Brazilian Waterweed – This South American native has an indefinite growth ability. Submerged, sometimes floating, aquatic perennial with many branched stems, to 36″ long, with numerous whorls of stalkless, linear leaves, to 1″ long, sharp pointed tips. In summer it bears tubular spathes, 3/4″ long, of small but showy white male flowers, held above the water surface.
Zones 6-15
