TL;DR | Stiff water vine (Ranunculus circinatus) is a robust, native aquatic plant that grows underwater with stiff leaves and blooms with small white flowers. This aquatic plant grows in stagnant or slow-flowing, calcareous water and is ideal for ecological ponds without floating plants.
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Stiff water vine is a perennial, submerged aquatic plant in the ranunculus family. Unlike some related species, this plant does not have floating leaves. The stems can grow up to 100 cm long and bear finely incised leaves with stiffly spreading stipules that are perpendicular to the stem. The white flowers, with yellow bases, appear from June to August and protrude above the surface of the water.
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Ranunculus circinatus occurs naturally in still or slow-flowing water such as ponds, canals, lakes and enclosed estuaries. The species thrives best in calcareous, neutral to slightly basic water with a moderately to highly nutrient-rich composition. The soil may be mineral (sand, sulphur, clay) as well as organic. Sunny sites are ideal, although light shade is also tolerated.
Stiff water vine produces oxygen through its submerged leaves, which benefits water quality. The plant competes with algae for nutrients, which reduces algal blooms. In addition, the stiff structure of the leaves provides hiding places for small aquatic animals, promoting biodiversity. The plant remains present throughout the year, contributing to a stable pond environment.
For optimum effect, we recommend planting the stiff water vine in pond substrate or pond soil, preferably in sunny spots. As this plant does not develop floating leaves, the water surface remains largely free, ensuring a clear and natural pond appearance. The plant does not need to be placed in baskets, but can be planted directly on the bottom. Maintenance is minimal: any excess plant mass can be thinned out in summer.
The submerged leaves of this species are unique: they remain rigid in a flat plane even when removed from the water. The white flowers are 1-2 cm in size, with petals that barely overlap. The flower base is hairy and at maturity the fruits are often bare with a small style remnant. These characteristics prevent confusion with other species of water vine.
Stiff water vine is widespread in Europe and Asia, with a preference for temperate climate zones. In the Netherlands, this species is particularly common in the western and northern parts of the country. In Flanders, the species is found in the Polders and along the Scheldt. You will not find this species in places where the water often dries up in summer, as it requires permanently wet conditions.
The Stiff Water Ranunculus provides shelter to various aquatic organisms such as water fleas and young fish. It also attracts a variety of aquatic insects, such as water beetles, dragonfly larvae and hoverflies, which benefit from the water-dependent flora. Butterflies are mainly land-bound and play hardly any role in pollination of aquatic plants. By its presence, it contributes to an ecological balance in clear, nutrient-rich waters. Especially in recently cleaned-up or young water bodies, it establishes itself quickly.
This plant is ideal for clear, nature-friendly ponds and water features. It combines well with other submerged oxygen plants as Hornleaf or Glossy pondweed. Its subtle presence makes it suitable for ponds where an open appearance must be maintained.
Rigid water vine can be ordered through our sales partner Vijvermeester.nl.
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