Water soldier (Stratiotes aloides)
Care, watering, light and tips for Water soldier on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Hydrocharitaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Water soldier
Stratiotes aloides, commonly known as Water Soldier, is a perennial free-floating aquatic plant native to Europe and Northwest Asia. Its deep green, sword-shaped leaves grow in a dense rosette, resembling a small aloe or a floating pineapple. It's ideal for ponds, water features, or cold-water aquariums, adding an exotic and natural touch to the water's surface.
Native range
Europe and temperate Asia
Care tips
It thrives in full sun to partial shade and calm, non-turbulent waters. It doesn't require substrate as it floats freely, though it may occasionally anchor itself in shallow waters. This plant is very hardy and typically doesn't need additional fertilization in established ponds, but it's crucial to avoid introducing it into natural ecosystems where it can become invasive. Its main requirement is clean, well-oxygenated water.
How to save a dying Water soldier
- Warning signs
- Soft, transparent, yellowish leaves or dark spots. Stunted growth.
- First aid
- Remove dead leaves. Ensure fresh, chlorine-free water. Reduce light if excessive. Check nutrients.
- What kills it
- Stagnant, dirty, or algae-filled water. Lack of nutrients. Excessive direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if green leaves or healthy roots remain. Quick changes and optimal environment can revive it.