Water Ribbons

(Triglochin scilloides)

Water Ribbons (Triglochin scilloides)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Triglochin scilloides, commonly known as Water Ribbons, is a perennial herb native to freshwater habitats such as marshes, swamps, and the edges of streams and lakes in Australia and New Zealand. It grows at a moderate rate to a height of 1.5-3 feet (0.46-0.9 meters) and is characterized by its long, ribbon-like leaves that float on the water’s surface. The green, inconspicuous flowers bloom in the summer and are followed by small, seed-like fruits. Water Ribbons play a crucial role in their native aquatic ecosystems by providing habitat and food for waterfowl and aquatic life.

Water Ribbons are valued in water gardens and naturalized pond settings for their ability to oxygenate the water and provide cover for aquatic wildlife. They are also used in constructed wetlands for water purification purposes. In cultivation, they require full sun to part shade and thrive in very slow draining clay or loam soils, with high or very high amounts of water. While generally low-maintenance, they can be sensitive to water quality and may require regular monitoring to ensure they are not affected by pollutants.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1.5-3 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Green
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High, Aquatic
  • Drainage: Standing

Common Uses

Bird Garden, Low Maintenance, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

Freshwater marshes, swamps, and the edges of streams and lakes in Australia and New Zealand

Other Names

Common Names: Grass-seed Arrowgrass, Water Onion, Awl-Leaved Lilaea, Water Ribbons

Scientific Names: , Triglochin scilloides, Anthericum scilloides, Heterostylus gramineus, Lilaea scilloides, Lilaea scilloides var. batucoanus, Lilaea subulata, Lilaea subulata, Lilaea superba, Liliago scilloides

GBIF Accepted Name: