Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf
Sagittaria brevirosta
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Pl. D975 — Sagittaria brevirosta
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IOverview
Overview
Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf, scientifically known as Sagittaria brevirosta, is a perennial plant native to the eastern United States, including states like Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, and Kentucky. This plant thrives in wet environments such as marshes and along riverbanks, making it an important part of aquatic ecosystems. Known for its edible roots, Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf can grow up to 1.2 meters tall and prefers light (full sun) conditions with soil that is either sandy, medium, or clayey. Its distinctive features include arrow-shaped leaves and the relatively short beak of its fruit, setting it apart from other species in the Sagittaria genus.
Quick answers
What is Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf?
Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf, scientifically known as Sagittaria brevirosta, is a perennial plant native to the eastern United States, including states like Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, and Kentucky.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf thrives in full sun and prefers wet soil conditions, making it ideal for areas with standing water or near ponds. It can grow in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. This perennial plant reaches a height of 1.2 meters and is hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, division of the roots is an effective method. Harvest edible root parts as needed throughout the growing season.
Light
Full sun
Water
Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf for the first time
8steps
Start with Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf as a simple, water-loving perennial for your beginner garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A container or spot in the garden that stays wet, seeds or small plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is light (sandy), medium, or heavy with good drainage. Containers should have holes for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the wet area or start them indoors and transplant when they are a few inches tall.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist, providing plenty of water. Monitor for any signs of stress.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently wet but not flooded. Prune dead leaves and stems as needed.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead foliage in late fall to encourage new growth next year.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in too dry a location, neglecting to prune dead leaves.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of the Short-Beaked Arrow Leaf is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is often cooked to enhance its flavor and texture, but it can also be eaten raw. The roots are typically harvested from wet environments where the plant grows naturally.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
23 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
23 native · 1 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 23 native· 1 introduced
Broader regions
native:Illinois, Arkansas, Colorado, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, Alabama
introduced:California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · d9758779-4a99-4012-8b73-1cd5893fa94a
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