Rorippa aquatica

Description

Rorippa aquatica, also known as water cabbage, is a small amphibian plant native to central and southern parts of the USA. It inhabits mud and shallow waters of springs, lakes, bogs, ditches, and rivulets. This rare plant in nature can thrive in clean, slow-flowing waters. Cultivated as an aquarium plant for long, it may be found under former names Armoracia aquatica or Neobeckia aquatica. Rorippa aquatica differs from other species by white flowers instead of yellow ones and distinct characteristics. Its appearance varies depending on growth conditions, forming 10 cm high leaf rosettes or upright stems with alternate leaves. Leaves have a deeply incised margin, almost pinnate with narrow tips, or coarsely serrate margins. Emersed plants with flower stalks and infrutescence can grow up to 70 cm tall. Water cabbage is suitable for aquarium foreground due to its relatively low growth. It prefers temperatures between 20-25°C, moderate to high light, and nutrient-rich substrate. This plant is not demanding but grows slowly even under optimal conditions.