Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata)

Also known as: Heart-leaved pickerel weed

Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) is an aquatic plant reaching heights of 61 to 91 cm. Named after the pickerel fish, with which it shares a symbiotic relationship, this plant thrives in shallow freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes, and ponds.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Pickerelweed

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

1.2 m

Spread

45 cm to 60 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

Blue Purple Violet

Images of Pickerelweed

Quickly Identify Pickerelweed

Distinctive glossy, arrowhead-shaped leaves can grow up to 10 inches (25 cm) long.

Tubular flowers in soft blue to white hues on stalks 1 to 2 feet (30 to 60 cm) tall.

Fruit is oblong, segmented into three cells with unique toothed ridges, appearing from summer to late autumn.

Basal leaves are glossy, deep green, egg- to lance-shaped with a distinctive swirling base.

Rhizomes are stout and hollow underground; flower stalks above ground are light green and terete.

Scientific Classification of Pickerelweed

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Monocotyledons

Order

Spiderworts and allies

Family

Water-hyacinth

Genus

Pontederia

Species

Pickerelweed

Planting and Growing of Pickerelweed

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 8 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

68-82℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Pickerelweed?

Pontederia cordata prefers moist to wet soil conditions, so each watering must thoroughly soak the soil up to 500 ml per plant to ensure the roots are adequately hydrated without drowning them.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Pickerelweed? ›

What should I do if my Pickerelweed is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Pickerelweed? ›

How to save an overwatered Pickerelweed? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Pickerelweed?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Preferring full to partial sun, Pontederia cordata benefits from ample sunlight for optimal growth, exhibiting vibrant leaves and prolific blooms.

What is the ideal lighting condition for Pontederia cordata? ›

How can I ensure Pontederia cordata gets ideal lighting? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting provide Pontederia cordata? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Pickerelweed?

Ideal Temperature: 68 ~ 82℉

Pontederia cordata, commonly known as pickerelweed, thrives best in a temperature range of 68°F to 82°F. This range ensures optimal growth and flowering as the plant can efficiently conduct photosynthesis and other physiological processes without stress. When maintained in this range, the plant exhibits vigorous foliage and vibrant blooms.

What Soil is Best for Pickerelweed?

Soil type: Loam, Clay soil, Peat soil

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7.5

Pontederia cordata thrives in soil that retains moisture effectively. This characteristic is crucial because it prevents the plant from drying out, ensuring its lush growth and vibrant bloom. Keeping the soil moist significantly boosts its resilience and vitality. This plant benefits from a medium rich in organic matter, which provides essential nutrients. These nutrients are vital for its robust growth, promoting healthy leaves and beautiful flowers. While moisture is essential, it's equally important that the soil remains well-drained to prevent root rot. Good drainage ensures root health and prevents stagnation, encouraging strong root development.

How to Fertilize Pickerelweed?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Pontederia cordata, one should use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half the recommended strength. For liquid fertilizer, mix around 1 tablespoon per gallon of water, which should suffice to meet the plant's nutritional needs efficiently. A little goes a long way, preventing any potential nutrient overload while still encouraging robust growth.

How to Prune Pickerelweed?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

Look for stems and leaves that are noticeably discolored or withering. These parts should be removed to prevent any potential pest infestations or diseases. Make clean cuts at a downward angle about one-quarter inch above a node or a pair of leaves. This helps in promoting new and healthy growth from that point. Collect pruned material and dispose of it properly. Do not leave it around the plant base as this can lead to fungal diseases or attract pests. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Pickerelweed plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Collect seeds from mature Pontederia cordata plants in late summer. Allow the seed heads to dry on the plant before collecting to ensure that seeds are fully mature and ready for germination.

Sow the seeds in a seed tray filled with moist, well-draining soil. Lightly cover seeds with a layer of soil, and place the tray in a warm location with indirect sunlight for optimal germination.

In early spring, carefully dig up mature plants and divide them into smaller sections. Ensure each section has roots attached. Replant divisions in the desired location immediately to minimize root damage and shock.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Pickerelweed plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Pontederia cordata should be repotted when you notice its roots protrude from the drainage holes or the plant outgrows its current pot, making growth appear stunted. Early spring and early summer are ideal as they allow the plant to establish in its new environment before active growth periods.

Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. A slightly bigger pot provides ample room for root expansion without causing waterlogging issues. Make sure the pot has multiple drainage holes to prevent excess moisture, promoting a healthy root system.

Opt for a rich, well-draining soil mix that retains moisture but doesn’t become soggy. A good soil structure supports robust growth, ensuring nutrients are easily accessible to the plant’s roots, promoting a lush and vibrant plant.