Article: Kidneyleaf Mud Plantain
Common Name
Blue mud plantain, kidney-leaved mud-plantain, mud plantain
Scientific Name
Herteranthera reniformis
Family
Pontederiaceae
Lifecycle
Annual or Perennial: Depending on environmental conditions, it can behave as either.
Seasons of Growth
Grows year-round in suitable aquatic environments, particularly thriving in warmer months.
Key Distinguishing Feature
Leaves: Bright green, kidney-shaped, slightly fleshy, and up to 5 cm wide. Leaves can float or emerge above the water. Flowers: White to pale blue, arranged in racemes of 2-10 flowers, opening in the morning and wilting by early afternoon. Stems: Produce roots at nodes and can float or grow submerged. Fruit: A capsule containing 8-14 small winged seeds.
