Nymphoides Hydrophylla sp Taiwan

Morphological Characteristics

Nymphoides hydrophylla 'Taiwan' is an aquatic plant with distinct features:

• Growth Habit: It is a rooted aquatic plant with a short rhizome. It produces flexible, petiole-like shoots with several nodes that can occasionally root .

• Leaves: The leaves are orbicular-rounded (1-6 cm across) with a deep, heart-shaped base. A notable feature is that the underside of the leaf is often purple . The aquatic cultivar 'Taiwan' is known for its many underwater leaves and an intense, light-green, almost transparent colour .

• Flowers: The plant produces delicate, five-petaled white flowers with a distinct yellow throat. The petals have fringed or winged margins and a characteristic longitudinal crest, which gives the plant its Chinese name "dragon-keel" .

• Fruit and Seeds: The fruit is a small, oblong capsule (about 3 mm in diameter) containing 1-6 seeds. The seeds are globe-shaped and covered with short, papillose (nipple-like) projections .

 Distribution and Habitat

• Native Range: Its native distribution spans tropical Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and South China .

• Presence in Taiwan: In Taiwan, it is considered native but has a very restricted natural distribution, found only in the southern part of the island . The most famous population is in Chung-Cheng Lake in Meinong District, Kaohsiung . A recent observation was also recorded in a paddy field ditch in Yilan County .

• Conservation Status: On the Taiwan Red List, it is categorized as NCR (Nationally Critical) . This highlights its rarity and conservation need in the wild in Taiwan.

 Cultural, Culinary, and Scientific Importance

This plant holds a unique place in Taiwanese culture and science:

• A Local Delicacy: In the Meinong District of Kaohsiung, the slender, crisp stems (often referred to as spears) are a renowned local agricultural product and vegetable . It is commonly known there as "ye lian" (wild lotus) or "shui lian" (water lotus) and is a key ingredient in Hakka cuisine .

• Scientific Interest: Recent research has isolated specific compounds called oleanane-type saponins from this edible plant. These compounds have demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory effects in laboratory tests by inhibiting key functions in human immune cells . This supports its traditional use for ailments like ulcers and skin diseases .

 Cultivation and Care (Aquarium & Pond)

Nymphoides hydrophylla 'Taiwan' is a popular plant in the aquatic horticulture trade, both for ponds and aquariums .

• As an Ornamental: It is prized for its beautiful, water lily-like leaves and easy care, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquascapers .

• Growth Conditions: It is a fast-growing plant that adapts to a wide range of conditions. For optimal growth, it prefers moderate to high light and nutrient-rich water . It can grow to a height of 15-40 cm .

• Propagation: The plant propagates easily from adventitious plantlets that form on the leaves