Orontium

This hardy, aquatic perennial is a native to eastern North America. It is great for planting in shallow pools and at the edges of ponds or lakes. The leaves grow directly from the roots on smooth, round petioles up to 9 inches in length. They are dark bluish-green and lance-shaped, growing up to 18 inches long. In the beginning, they grow erectly, but when mature, float on the water's surface. Long, slender flowers (resembling the spadix of an Arum Lily) emerge from the water in early summer; they are white tipped with brilliant yellow. This plant, commonly known as Golden Club, can be grown in up to a foot of water though its full beauty can be appreciated when grown along the edges of your water garden.

Pot Cultivation

Grow Golden Club in 2- to 5-gallon containers filled with rich soil consisting of leaf mold and loam. The surface of the soil should be covered with a layer of sand. Place them in the water in a sunny or partially shaded location. In cold climates, Golden Club should be moved to a deeper part of the water garden to prevent it from freezing.

Propagation

The plants may be gently divided in May and June. Ripe seeds may also be sown in June and July.

O. aquaticum.

VARIETIES

O. aquaticum.