Gymnocoronis spilanthoides – Senegal Tea Plant
The scientific name of this plant is Gymnocoronis spilanthoides. The species was first described by Augustin Pyramus de Candolle. Their common name is “Senegal Tea Plant”. The plant belongs to the family Asteraceae.
Description
Gymnocoronis spilanthoides is a large, leafy stem plant with oblong, ovate to lanceolate leaves (4-20 cm long and 1.5-8 cm wide) with serrate margins. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with no specific patterns or markings. The plant can grow up to about 90 centimeters tall and wide in the garden, but in an aquarium the height will depend on the water column.
The plant forms white or light purple-white, fluffy flower heads (12-20 mm wide) that grow in small, dense clusters at the tips of the branches. The flowering period is from late spring to late fall (November to May). In the pond world, it is known as the “water snowball plant” because of its spherical white flowers.
Biotope
In the wild, Gymnocoronis spilanthoides occurs in South America, especially in Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay, and possibly also in Mexico.
The Aquarium
For optimal growth in the aquarium, Gymnocoronis spilanthoides requires average light, although the exact length of light is not specified. Normal aquarium lighting is probably sufficient. The plant is not demanding in terms of water values, but a stable environment is important. Given its rapid growth, it is likely that the plant could use additional nutrients. The plant grows both with and without CO2 addition, but growth will be faster with CO2. With Co2 they require a bit more light.
It is recommended to plant the plants in a gradually ascending group, planting the stems separately.
Propagation
Gymnocoronis spilanthoides propagates easily via cuttings. A healthy stem with at least two nodes is cut off, the lower leaves are removed and the cutting is placed in a glass of water until roots develop (several weeks to a few months). Once the roots are about 2.5 cm long, the cutting can be planted in a pot with well-drained potting soil. Propagation by seed is also possible, but less common. Division of a mature plant is another option.
Conclusion
Gymnocoronis spilanthoides is a relatively easy aquarium plant to keep, especially for beginners with a large aquarium. However, its rapid growth can be a disadvantage if the plant is not managed properly. Regular pruning is recommended to keep the growth under control. The plant is not demanding in terms of water values, but a stable environment is important. An unusual characteristic is its rapid growth and ability to grow both submerged and above water .
Invasive exotic plant
Gymnocoronis spilanthoides has been on the Union list of invasive exotic species of concern to the European Union since 2019. This means that the plant is considered an invasive exotic, a species introduced outside its natural range that has negative impacts on native biodiversity and ecosystems. Its rapid growth and ability to spread easily make it a threat to native flora.
The inclusion in the Union list has important implications for the keeping and propagation of Gymnocoronis spilanthoides in the EU. It is prohibited to keep the plant:
- Intentionally introduce in EU territory.
- To keep, breed, transport to, from or within the Union.
- To market.
- To be grown or released into the environment.
There may be exceptions under strict conditions, such as for scientific research aimed at improving eradication methods . Thus, it is illegal to propagate and distribute this plant within the EU unless one has a special permit. It is important to be aware of these regulations to avoid legal problems.
Author
John de Lange
Copyright images
國立臺灣博物館, CC BY 4.0
Nicolas Olejnik – CC BY 4.0
r-a-p – CC BY 4.0
