Brasenia schreberi (Watershield)

Brasenia schreberi (Watershield) is an aquatic perennial with floating, oval, bright green leaves, 4 in. long (10 cm), with reddish-purple undersides. Resembling miniature water lily leaves, they are borne on long petioles that are attached to the center of the leaf. They create a lovely backdrop for the purple to burgundy flowers, 1 in. across (2.5 cm), that arise above the floating leaves. Blooming in summer and early fall, the flowers have a two-day blooming period. On the first day, the female (pistillate) flower, extends above the surface of the water and exposes its receptive stigmas. The flower then recedes below the water surface and on the following day emerges as a male (staminate) flower. Rising higher than on the previous day, its anther-bearing filaments are extended beyond the female carpels. After the pollen is released, the flower is then withdrawn below the water where the fruit develops. All underwater parts of this plant are covered with a gelatinous coating that apparently protects the plant from drying out during drought and may also deter mammals from eating it. Widespread in North America, it is found in South and Central America, the West Indies, eastern Asia, Africa, and eastern Australia. Watershield grows naturally in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. This rooted aquatic benefits wildlife. Waterfowl eat the plant. The floating leaves provide shelter for fish and other aquatic organisms. However, it can become extremely weedy and can take over shallow ponds and lakes.

• Grows up to 2 in. tall (5 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in the mud of shallow waters in 8-10 in. of water (20-25 cm).
• Suitable for ponds, and water gardens.
• No serious pest or disease issue.
• Deadhead and remove yellow leaves regularly. 
• Propagated from cuttings or seed.
• Widely distributed in North America, the West Indies, northern South America (Venezuela, Guyana), eastern Asia (China, Japan, Korea, Primorye), Australia, the Indian Subcontinent, and parts of Africa.