Callitriche terrestris

Callitriche is a genus of delicate aquatic and bog plants, most of whose species are found in temperate zones of the northern hemisphere. There are relatively many species of that genus in Europe, most of which are difficult to identify. Even though Callitriche species like C. vernalis are mentioned in aquarium literature sometimes, they have not yet found a great distribution as aquarium plants. However, they are often sold as outdoor pond plants.

Callitriche terrestris is a North-American species "discovered" for aquaristic purposes by hobbyists in the USA. It was erroneously assumed to be Elatine americana (a synonym of Elatine triandra) for some time.
Whereas most other Callitriche species grow under water or at least only partially emersed in nature, C. terrestris is often found far from any waterbody, as terrestrial plant on moist ground. The leaves of the tiny, creeping emersed form are spatulate and grow to a length of 3 to 4 mm. When cultivated submersed, the plant grows leaves that are very narrow-lineal and distinctly longer.

Callitriche terrestris is probably not in cultivation in Europe yet.

- To be continued -