Broadleaf Arrowhead Plant Care
Sagittaria latifolia Willd.
Sagittaria latifolia is a wetland plant in the family Alismataceae, native to North America and northern South America; common names include broadleaf arrowhead, duck-potato, Indian potato, or wapato. This plant produces edible tubers that have traditionally been extensively used by Native Americans.
Every 2–4 days
Full sun to part shade
60–80°F
60–80%
What Is the Broadleaf Arrowhead?
Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia) belongs to the Alismataceae family within the Sagittaria genus. Broadleaf Arrowhead is native to North America and northern South America. Broadleaf Arrowhead is also known as Duck Potato, Wapato, Arrowhead.
Broadleaf Arrowhead displays an aquatic perennial herb growth habit, reaching up to 2 inches tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 inches. Broadleaf Arrowhead produces white, three-petaled flowers on tall stalks.
Leaf size: approximately 8 inches.
How Often Should You Water a Broadleaf Arrowhead?
Sagittaria latifolia requires watering every 2–4 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.
Watering Frequency
Every 2–4 days
Let soil partially dry between waterings
What Light Does the Broadleaf Arrowhead Need?
Broadleaf Arrowhead thrives in full sun to part shade light conditions. The optimal light range is 200–1000 lux. Avoid placing Broadleaf Arrowhead in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods, as this can scorch the foliage.
Light Requirement
Full sun to part shade
200–1000 lux
What Temperature and Humidity Does the Broadleaf Arrowhead Prefer?
Sagittaria latifolia grows best at temperatures between 60°F and 80°F. Broadleaf Arrowhead prefers humidity levels of 60–80%. A pebble tray or humidifier helps maintain adequate moisture around the plant.
Temperature
60–80°F
Humidity
60–80%
What Soil Mix Works Best for a Broadleaf Arrowhead?
Rich, loamy soil with good moisture retention. Good drainage is essential for Broadleaf Arrowhead to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.
How Do You Repot a Broadleaf Arrowhead?
Can be repotted annually in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.
How Do You Propagate a Broadleaf Arrowhead?
Broadleaf Arrowhead can be propagated through division, seeds.
Fertilizing
Every 6 months
During the growing season
Is the Broadleaf Arrowhead Toxic to Pets and Children?
Non-Toxic
Non-toxic to humans and pets
What Pests and Diseases Affect the Broadleaf Arrowhead?
Broadleaf Arrowhead is susceptible to aphids, leaf miners. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.
What USDA Hardiness Zone Does the Broadleaf Arrowhead Need?
Broadleaf Arrowhead grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. Native to North America and northern South America, Broadleaf Arrowhead is adapted to warm climates. In cooler regions, grow Broadleaf Arrowhead as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.
Hardiness Zone
Zone 13a
Keep exploring plants
Broadleaf Arrowhead is one of many species covered in the complete plant care and identification guide, which groups plants by genus, attribute, and popularity.
It belongs to the Sagittaria genus — compare its care with other Sagittaria species on PlantoScan.
Broadleaf Arrowhead tolerates low-light rooms and shaded spots — browse the full list of low-light plants.