Ricefield waternymph
Najas graminea
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Pl. C868 — Najas graminea
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IOverview
Overview
Ricefield waternymph (Najas graminea) is a perennial herb that thrives in various habitats across Asia and Africa, from Afghanistan to Vietnam and beyond. Known for its light-loving nature and ability to grow in sandy, medium, or clay soils with a pH between 7 and 7.5, this plant can be found in regions like Bangladesh, India, and China. It is both edible and ornamental, with leaves that are the parts used for consumption. Ricefield waternymph can reach heights of about 20 cm and is often seen in areas with a hardiness range of 7 to 10. Its adaptability to diverse environments makes it a valuable plant in its native regions.
Quick answers
What is Ricefield waternymph?
Ricefield waternymph (Najas graminea) is a perennial herb that thrives in various habitats across Asia and Africa, from Afghanistan to Vietnam and beyond. Known for its light-loving nature and ability to grow in sandy, medium, or clay soils with a pH between 7 and 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Ricefield waternymph thrives in light to medium soil with a pH between 7 and 7.5, preferring sandy or clay conditions. It requires ample water and is hardy in temperate regions, though its exact zone isn't specified. This annual plant grows up to 0.2 meters tall and can be propagated through seeds. Ensure it receives moderate light for best growth. Harvest the edible leaves as needed.
Light
5/10
Water
Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
7-10
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.2 m tall
Soil pH
7–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Ricefield waternymph for the first time
8steps
Start with easy-to-grow Ricefield waternymph for a beginner-friendly experience.
- 1
What you'll need
Ricefield waternymph seeds or small plants, containers or soil for planting.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a pot with good drainage holes. Fill with light, medium, or heavy soil, ensuring it has a pH of 7-7.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the soil or start them indoors and transplant once they have grown a bit.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist, providing plenty of water to help establish the plant.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Keep an eye on light conditions and ensure it gets enough sunlight.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune leaves as needed for maintenance, which can also encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in unsuitable soil, not providing enough light, and neglecting to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Leaves
Edible uses: The ricefield waternymph's leaves are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are typically prepared in salads or as a side dish. SKIP
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Asia7 regions
native (7)ChinaIndiaIranIraqJapanKazakhstanSouth Korea
Africa11 regions
native (11)AlgeriaBotswanaCameroonChadEgyptEthiopiaGambiaGuinea-BissauKenyaMaliMauritania
Broader regions
native:Aldabra, Central African Repu, Jawa, Lebanon-Syria, Malaya, Maluku, Hainan, Nansei-shoto
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c8687c4e-650b-4473-86f9-933385466d11
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