SafePlants

Blue Mudplantain (Heteranthera limosa)

Heteranthera limosa, commonly known as blue mudplantain or ducksalad, is an aquatic plant belonging to the water hyacinth family. This herb is characterized by broad leaves and is often found in wetland environments.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant grows in mud, an environment that may contain various microorganisms.

Considerations for Children

• The plant grows in mud, an environment that may contain various microorganisms.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Heteranthera limosa (Sw.) Willd.
• Common Names: Blue Mudplantain, Ducksalad, Mud Plantain
• Family: Pontederiaceae (Pickerelweed Family)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Pontederia limosa Sw.
• Other Species: Heteranthera mexicana S. Watson (Mexican Mudplantain), Heteranthera multiflora (Griseb.) Horn (Bouquet Mudplantain), Heteranthera reniformis (Kidneyleaf Mudplantain), Heteranthera dubia (Grassleaf Mudplantain)

Distribution and Habitat

• Heteranthera limosa is found in North America, including states like Virginia, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, and New Mexico.
• It is noted as "introduced" in some regions and native to others. Specific status can vary, with blue mudplantain being most common in ponds associated with sand dune swales in some areas.

Morphological Characteristics

• The plant has tufted, rooted stems that can be submersed, elongate, emersed, contracted, erect, or creeping. These stems are glabrous (smooth).
• Flowers are typically 1-inch in size and can range from blue-violet to white. They are tubular with 6 narrow lobes, with the upper 3 lobes sometimes exhibiting yellow coloration.
• The flowers can be blue, purple, violet, or white and are arranged solitarily.
• Kidneyleaf mudplantain (Heteranthera reniformis) is distinguished by kidney-shaped leaves.

Ecological Role

• Kidneyleaf mudplantain (Heteranthera reniformis) is considered a pest weed in some areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Flowers open for only a few hours each day. Flowers of Heteranthera reniformis open about three hours after sunrise and wilt.
• The plant interacts with various insects and potentially other plants within its aquatic habitat.

Quirky Facts

• The flowers of Kidneyleaf mudplantain (Heteranthera reniformis) are described as inconspicuous, white to pale blue, and very delicate.
• Mudplantain's blossoms are said to resemble orchids.

Further Information

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Encyclopaedia Britannica