Ceratophyllum - Coontail, Hornwort

(Ceratophyl'lum)

DESCRIPTION: These aquatic perennials are commonly known as Coontails or Hornworts. They are found in ponds and lakes in many parts of the world, including North America. Coontails are often found floating freely or loosely anchored in the mud. The plant consists of long stems, 1 or 2 feet in length, covered in whorls of dark green, feathery, forked leaves that grow up to 11/2 inches in length. Unnoticeable flowers are produced in the axils of the leaves. Coontails can be placed in a pond to provide shelter, shade and spawning media for fish.

POTTING: Pieces are simply set in the water to float freely. In the fall, the tips of the plant's growth shorten and thicken before breaking off and sinking to the bottom where they spend the winter as buds.

PROPAGATION: They increase themselves readily.

VARIETIES: C. demersum.

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