Vallisneria americana var. gigantea is a submerged aquatic perennial with long, slender, ribbon-like green leaves. This species grows in temperate regions the world over, forming lush, underwater meadows in rivers, lakes, and ponds. Not only does this fast-growing plant promote natural filtration, but it is also an excellent oxygenator, and provides welcome shelter for all kinds of aquatic life. Vallisneria americana var. gigantea is best grown in groups of several bunches placed close together in pond baskets, in a sunny position. Take care when planting so as not to crush the sensitive, thick white roots, and be aware that this plant may soon start to shade out other species if not kept in check; for this reason it really is best suited to larger ponds only. Occasionally the plant will send up flowers - male and female on separate plants. The female flower is produced on a long twisted stem at the water's surface, and the male flower on a short stalk near the bottom of the pond. The stamens of the male flower eventually break off, floating to the surface where they may come into contact with female flowers, and pollination occurs. Once this has taken place, the stalks of the female flowers begin to contract in a spiral and are submerged under the water in order for the seeds to ripen below the surface. With regards to maintenance, trim any leaves that start to turn yellow/brown and remove the cuttings from the water to limit the amount of organic waste material in the water. During the colder part of the year, more of the plant may start to die off, so many aquarists like to cut the foliage right back (carefully disposing of any cuttings) and, if the plant is sited in a shallower region of the pond, lower the basket into a deeper area of the pond (i.e. over 90cm/36") to overwinter. Ideally try and keep a small area free of ice using an air pump or pond heater. The following spring, when all signs of overnight frosts are gone, move the plants back up to their original shallower location if desired. Propagation is from seed, division, and runners that send out daughter plants.
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