Potamogeton distinctus
Family: Potamogetonaceae
What it is like
Potamogeton distinctus is a PERENNIAL at a fast rate. It is in flower from May to October, and the seeds ripen from May to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It can grow in water.
Height (m): 0
Where it is found
Ponds and paddy fields all over Japan.
E. Asia - China, Japan, Korea
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 1
Leaves and stems - cooked.
Stem: this often intergrades into leaves.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
We have very little information on this species and do not know if it will be hardy in this country, though judging by its native range it should succeed outdoors in many parts of the country. The following notes are based on the general needs of the genus. A submerged aquatic plant that can be used as an oxygenator of ponds. It is best given a loam based medium in full sun. A fast growing plant in need of constant checking to make sure it does not overrun the pond. Hybridizes freely with other members of this genus, the resulting progeny is usually sterile.
Propagating it: Seed - we have no information for this species but suggest sowing the seed in a pot that is standing in its own depth of water in a greenhouse as soon as the seed is ripe if this is possible. Stored seed is likely to have a short viability. Prick out the seedlings when they are large enough to handle and increase the depth of water around the pot until the plants are covered by a few centimetres of water. Grow the plants on in a sunny position in the greenhouse for their first winter, increasing the depth of water as the plants grow larger. Plant them out into their permanent positions in early summer. Division in spring. Cuttings of erect shoots in the growing season.
Best place to grow: Pond;
Habit: Perennial
Hardiness:
Growth: Fast
Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Water