Mud plantain

Mud plantain

Alisma plantago-aquatica

Common Name:

Mud plantain

Scientific Name:

Alisma plantago-aquatica


Alternative common names:

Water alisma, European water-plantain, common water-plantainormad-dog weed

Description:

Mud plantain is a large stoloniferous, rooted aquatic herb up to 1 m high. Leaves large, with blades ovate, 100-250 mm long x 60-100 mm wide, with rounded or heart shaped bases and five to seven prominent longitudinal veins, petiole to 800 mm long, flattened on one side and with small wings at base. Flowers white or pink, 3 petalled, bisexual, 10 mm across, clustered at the tips of whorled branches, inflorescence branched, up to 600 x 40 mm, above the leaves. Fruits: Achenes.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Northern Africa

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

NEMBA Category 1b

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Gauteng

How does it spread?

Seed dispersal is by wind.

Why is it a problem?

Threat to water security.

What does it look like?

Leaves: Equitant - Large, with blades ovate, 100-250 mm long x 60-100 mm wide, with rounded or heart shaped bases and five to seven prominent longitudinal veins, petiole to 800 mm long, flattened on one side and with small wings at base.
Flowers: White or pink, 3 petalled, bisexual, 10 mm across, clustered at the tips of whorled branches, inflorescence branched, up to 600 x 40 mm, above the leaves.
Fruit/seeds: Achene - Aggregate fruit of 1 seeded segment, 2-2.5 mm long, falling singly.

Does the plant have any uses?

Medicine Purpose

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