Waternut, Trapa natans: aquatic plant with floating leaves and spiny fruits

Waternut, also known as Trapa natans, is a distinct aquatic plant with characterized by floating leaves and spiny fruits.

Where does Waternut grow?

Waternut is an aquatic plant native to Europe, Asia and Africa. You can find this plant in still or slow-flowing waters such as ponds, lakes and ditches. In the Netherlands and Belgium, waternut is found in wetlands and is also sometimes found in garden ponds. The plant prefers shallow, nutrient-rich water and a sunny to semi-shady location.

Characteristics of Waternut

Waternut is best known for its floating, dark green leaves and the unique, spiny nuts it produces. These nuts sink to the bottom of the pond and can germinate the following season. The plant also forms small, white flowers in the summer. Waternut can grow up to a meter wide, with the leaves forming a dense, floating carpet on the water.

The role of this aquatic plant in the pond

This plant is important for aquatic life. It provides hiding and breeding places for fish and aquatic insects. Its dense leaf growth also helps control algae and maintain water quality by providing shade and reducing the growth of unwanted aquatic plants.

Edibility and use

Interestingly, the nuts of waternut are edible and were historically harvested as a food source. They are rich in starch and have a nutty flavor. However, collecting the nuts can be tricky, and it is important to make sure they come from clean water.

Challenges in growing Waternut

Although waternut is an interesting plant, it can be challenging in garden ponds because of its rapid growth and tendency to quickly cover surfaces. Regular pruning and controlling growth are necessary to prevent it from overgrowing other plants.

Care and maintenance of Waternut

Waternut requires a little attention to grow well, but the effort is well worth it. This plant grows best in sunny or semi-shaded areas and prefers stagnant or slow-flowing water. It is important to keep an eye on the growth of waternut, especially since it can expand rapidly. By pruning regularly, you can prevent it from overgrowing other aquatic plants. This will keep your pond nicely balanced and ensure that other plants and animals in the water have adequate space and light as well.

Conclusion

Waternut, with its specific care needs and strong presence, is an interesting and valuable addition to ponds and wetland gardens. With proper care and maintenance, this plant can make a healthy and beautiful contribution to the aquatic landscape. For lovers of natural aquatic environments, waternut offers a unique opportunity to enrich the diversity and beauty of their wetland garden.