Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo - The Pink Flamingo Plant
What is Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo?
The Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo, also known as the Pink Flamingo Plant, is a unique aquatic plant native to Asia. It belongs to the family Apiaceae and is usually grown for its decorative features.
Why is it called the Pink Flamingo Plant?
The Pink Flamingo Plant gets its name from the pink tint on the top of its leaves. As a water plant, it needs to be submerged in water almost entirely. Its striking appearance makes it a perfect ornamental piece for any water garden setting.
Where can you find this plant?
This water plant is native to Asia but is now widely available worldwide for cultivation. You can purchase Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo plants or seeds from nurseries, online gardening stores, or aquarium shops in your area.
Characteristics of Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo
This aquatic plant species has several unique characteristics that make it stand out.
Description
The Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo is a hardy perennial plant that grows to a height between 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm), with a spread of up to 24 inches (60 cm). It has lush green foliage, with pinkish-red tinted variegation on the top and lighter undersides. Flowers bloom in small white-to-pink clusters above the foliage in summer.
Uses and Benefits
The Pink Flamingo Plant has several uses, including:
- Water Garden Decor: The striking appearance of this plant makes it an excellent addition to any water garden.
- Aquarium Setting: It can be used in aquariums, especially when you want to create or enhance a marine biosphere.
- Unique Gifts: Pink Flamingo Plant makes for unique and thoughtful gifts, especially for those with an interest in gardening or home decor.
Cultivation
Here are some tips for cultivating the Pink Flamingo Plant:
- Water Requirements: This water plant requires consistently wet soil, ideally submerged entirely in water, but with just the top growth above the water level.
- Light Exposure: It needs bright and indirect light (can tolerate up to 50% direct sunlight for a brief period) and moderate humidity, making it perfect for indoor or partially shaded locations.
- Soil Type: It prefers loose, loamy, sandy substrate with plentiful organic matter, preferably slightly alkaline pH between 6.5 to 7.5.
- Temperature Range: It can tolerate temperatures from 4°C (40°F) to 30°C (85°F), making it a versatile aquatic plant species.
Propagation
You can propagate the Pink Flamingo Plant using either stem cuttings or runner cutting techniques. Best time for propagation is during summers.
Care Tips
Some care tips to keep your plant healthy and thriving:
- Water Feeding: Keep your aquarium/fountain bowls always full to promote healthy growth. Change the water regularly (every 2-3 months) to avoid buildup of algae or unwanted minerals.
- Fertilizer Application: You can add slow-release fertilizer directly to the soil or use water-soluble fertilizers for feeding, once every 1-2 weeks during active growth in summers only!
- Pruning technique: Trim frequently to handle overgrowth to retain its shape, and avoid clogging in aquarium plants.
- Pests and Disease Control: Inspect your plant regularly to check if there is a chance of disease or infestation by fungus gnats or spider mites.
Decorating Your Home with Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo
The Pink Flamingo Plant not only adds a pop of color to your home decor but also provides other benefits such as air purification and aesthetic appeal. Here are some ideas to decorate your home using this aquatic plant.
Creating a Water Garden Indoor
Create an indoor water garden with a container filled with water and several aquatic plants. Place the Pink Flamingo Plant at the center or as an accentuation piece for its beauty.
Using Pink Flamingo Plant as an Ornamental Plant
Use the Pink Flamingo Plant as an ornamental piece in vases or terrariums with other tropical plants. The contrasting color against green or yellow foliage can enhance the charm of your display.
Combining Pink Flamingo Plant with Other Aquatic Plants
Pair the Pink Flamingo Plant with other aquatic plants such as water lilies, iris, or cattails to create a miniature aquatic garden in a pond or container. It will give a charismatic and unique look.
The Pink Flamingo Plant is an elegant aquatic plant that provides an unconventional experience to Aquarium fans as well as helping to decorate homes. Despite its unique features, it can adapt to various home settings, making it one of the most popular indoor plants worldwide. With proper care and cultivation, it can bloom into a stunning addition to any water garden or interior setup.
FAQ
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about the Pink Flamingo Plant.
What are the common names of Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo?
Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo is commonly known by several other names like Pink Flamingo Plant, Water Celery, Chinese celery and Japanese parsley.
Is Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo a perennial plant?
Yes, the Pink Flamingo Plant is a hardy perennial aquatic plant species.
Can I grow Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo indoors?
Yes, the Pink Flamingo Plant can grow indoors in containers with adequate water level and indirect light sources.
How often should I water my Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo?
This aquatic plant requires consistently wet soil, i.e., submerged entirely in water almost all the time; however, for top-growth part, you need occasional sprays to sustain aesthetics.
What kind of soil does the Pink Flamingo Plant need to thrive?
The Pink Flamingo Plant thrives well in loose, loamy, sandy substrate with plentiful organic matter and prefers slightly alkaline pH between 6.5 to 7.5.
Do I need to fertilize my Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo plant? If yes, how often?
You can use a slow-release fertilizer or water-soluble fertilizer for feeding, needed only during summers, once every 1-2 weeks during active growth.
How often should I prune Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo?
Trim frequently to control overgrowth, retain its shape and avoid clogging in aquarium plants.
Can I propagate Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo through cuttings?
Yes, you can propagate Pink Flamingo Plant using stem/crown/runner cuttings techniques.
Is Oenanthe Javancia Flamingo safe for pets?
Although not deadly, it is better to keep this plant away from pets, as some herbs can cause skin irritation and digestive disorder upon consuming.
Where can I find Oenanthe Javanica Flamingo seeds or plants?
You can buy Pink Flamingo Plant seeds or potted plants from nurseries, gardening stores, or online stores. They usually are readily available with aquatic plant providers as well.
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