Callitriche brachycarpa

Short Water Starwort

Mat-forming, mostly terrestrial, annual herb.

FamilyPlantaginaceae (syn. Callitrichaceae)
StoreyLower storey
Sizeprostrate x spreading
Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
LeavesSmall egg-shaped, dark green leaves, 3-veined, broader towards tip, 1.6-7 mm x 0.7-5 mm .
Flower colourFruit light brown
Flowering timeFlowers paired, a tiny male and female flower in one leaf axil, male flowers reduced to 1 stamen which is longer than ripe fruit; female has 2 erect styles to 1.5 mm long and 2 ovaries. Very narrow wing on fruit.
FlowersFlowers paired, a tiny male and female flower in one leaf axil, male flowers reduced to 1 stamen which is longer than ripe fruit; female has 2 erect styles to 1.5 mm long and 2 ovaries. Very narrow wing on fruit.
Bird attractingNo
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsMoist to wet soils on floodplains. Dappled shade.
Garden useSuitable for bog gardens and pond edges.
Commercially availableWholesale only - order in advance
Conservation statusRare in Victoria with few known populations. One population known within the Shire.