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Water primrose Facts

Water primrose Facts
Water primrose is herbaceous plant that belongs to the willowherb family. It originates from South and Central America and southern parts of the USA, but it can be found around the world today. Water primrose grows near or on the surface of ponds, shallow lakes and slow-flowing streams. It can be also found in the swamps and ditches. Water primrose prefers areas with wet, muddy soil, that provide plenty of sunlight. It easily occupies new wetlands and prevents growth of native plant species. Water primrose is classified as invasive in most areas outside its native range.
Interesting Water primrose Facts:
Water primrose has erect stem that can reach up to 10 feet in height (1/3 of stem is usually positioned above the water). Red or green-colored stem floats on the surface of water or grows from the wet soil. Colonies of water primrose form dense floating mats on the surface of the water.
Water primrose has fibrous, fleshy root with small bladders filled with air (they increase buoyancy in the water). Water primrose produces two types of root: one that connects stem with the soil and other that aids in absorption of the oxygen from the atmosphere.
Water primrose develops elliptical, rounded or egg-shaped leaves with entire margins. They are shiny, bright green colored on the upper surface and slightly hairy on the bottom side. Leaves are alternately arranged on the stem.
Water primrose produces individual yellow flowers that grow from the axils of leaves. Flowers contain both types of reproductive organs (perfect flowers).
Water primrose blooms from June to October. Flowers are rich source of pollen and nectar which attract various species of bees and flies, that are responsible for the pollination of this plant.
Fruit of water primrose is cylindrical capsule filled with many seed.
Water primrose propagates via seed, broken fragments, runners and rhizomes.
Flowers of water primrose resemble the flowers of common evening primrose, hence the name "water primrose".
Ducks and other aquatic birds like to eat seed of water primrose.
Water primrose serves as shelter for aquatic insects and frogs.
Water primrose produces substances which prevent growth of nearby plants, algae and bacteria. That way, water primrose eliminates competition from the newly occupied areas.
Water primrose can reduce amount of oxygen and alter amount of phosphates, nitrates and sulphates in the water (it changes quality of water). Colonies of water primrose prevent normal movement of the fish and nesting of birds, as well as recreational activities in the lakes and streams.
Water primrose can clog the waterway and induce flooding. It facilitates spreading of diseases by increasing the number of breeding habitats for mosquitoes.
Water primrose can be used for elimination of nitrates and ammonia from the polluted soil and water.
Water primrose is perennial plant (life span: more than 2 years).


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