Ceratophyllum demersum
Hornwort
Common names: Rough Hornwort, Water Horse
Photo: Javier martin · Public Domain · Source
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Description
Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) is a rootless aquatic plant that floats freely in water with its fine, feathery leaves, drifting loosely among other plants. It is one of the most important oxygen producers in garden ponds and a strong competitor against algae, as it competes for nutrients and light. The tiny, inconspicuous flowers appear underwater and play little role in the pond; the plant is valued solely for its function as a water plant. In winter it collapses into buds on the pond bottom and survives the cold season there.
Care instructions
Plant hornwort loosely in the water; it does not root and drifts freely among other plants. It prefers depths of 30–100 cm in a bright to semi‑shaded spot in the pond. Trim dense shoots in summer to allow enough light to reach the pond bottom. In autumn the plant will naturally sink and overwinter on the bottom, so it does not need to be removed. In spring remove only the browned parts; the rest will reliably regrow.
Soil & site
Soil pH
Soil type
moist, nutrient-rich, loamy, clayey
Feeding
Medium feeder
Notes from real gardens
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