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Sagittaria latifolia

wapato

S. latifolia is a marginal aquatic perennial with usually arrow-shaped leaves, to 30cm in length, and racemes of whorled white flowers, 4cm across, in summer

Other common names
American arrowhead
duck potato
see morevarious-leaved arrowhead
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
5–10 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Poorly–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer White Green
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Alismataceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Sagittaria can be marginal or submerged aquatic, tuberous perennials or annuals, with linear, lance-shaped or arrow-shaped leaves and panicles of 3-petalled white flowers in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S Canada to W South America

How to grow

Cultivation

This plant is listed on Schedule 9 of the UK Wildlife & Countryside Act as an invasive non-native species. Although not banned from sale, it is an offence to plant or cause these to grow in the wild IN ENGLAND AND WALES. Gardeners possessing them should undertake measures to control them. See RHS advice on invasive non-native species for further information

Propagation

See cultivation notes

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Wildlife gardens
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Cut back in late summer and remove dead flowerheads to prevent self-seeding

Pests

May be susceptible to water lily aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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