Hermaphrodite Water-starwort, Autumn Starwort, Northern Water Starwort
Callitriche hermaphroditica
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
While not widely cultivated for consumption, Callitriche hermaphroditica provides valuable ecosystem services in aquatic permaculture systems. It offers habitat and refuge for aquatic invertebrates and small fish, contributing to biodiversity. Its rapid growth helps oxygenate the water, improving water quality and supporting other aquatic life. It can also be used to filter excess nutrients, reducing algae blooms in ponds and water features. Not directly edible or medicinal for humans.
Permapeople description
An aquatic plant found in still or slow-flowing water. It forms dense mats of vegetation.
Botanical description
Callitriche hermaphroditica is an aquatic plant belonging to the plantain family (Plantaginaceae). It is a submerged, perennial herb that forms dense mats or strands in still or slow-flowing freshwater. The stems are slender and branched, growing up to 30 cm long. The leaves are linear to narrowly oblanceolate, 1-veined, typically 1-3 cm long and 0.5-2 mm wide, and occur in opposite pairs along the stem. Flowers are inconspicuous and unisexual, with male and female flowers on the same plant (monoecious). The fruit is a small, winged nutlet containing a single seed. Callitriche hermaphroditica lacks stipules. It reproduces primarily vegetatively through stem fragments, but also by seed. It is often confused with other Callitriche species, but can be distinguished by its narrow, one-veined leaves and winged fruit.
Companion planting
As an aquatic plant, companion planting considerations differ from terrestrial systems. Callitriche hermaphroditica is compatible with other submerged aquatic plants that thrive in similar water conditions. It can coexist with species like water lilies (Nymphaea) or pondweeds (Potamogeton). However, it can be overly competitive with slow-growing or smaller aquatic plants, potentially shading them out. Its presence generally benefits aquatic ecosystems by improving water quality and providing habitat.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily achieved through vegetative means, specifically by stem fragments. Cuttings of the stem can be easily rooted in water or moist substrate. Seed propagation is also possible, though less common due to the plant's propensity for vegetative spread. Division of established mats can also be used to create new plants.
History and traditions
Historically, Callitriche hermaphroditica, like other water starworts, has not been a major plant in human traditions or folklore. Its primary importance lies in its ecological role within aquatic ecosystems. Some traditional uses may involve indirect benefits, such as improving water quality for drinking or supporting fish populations that are then harvested for food. No significant medicinal or ritual uses are documented.
Usage calendar
Growth occurs mainly during the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn. Flowering occurs from spring to late summer. Harvesting stem fragments for propagation is best done during the active growing season. Planting or introducing new plants is most successful in spring or early summer.