Orontium aquaticum

The genus Orontium comprises a single species, Orontium aquaticum, also known as Goldenclub, Aquatic Orontium, or Candle Plant. It is a perennial aquatic plant with an exotic appearance, belonging to the family Araceae. It has large spatulate leaves that can be submerged, floating, or emergent. The summer flowering consists of elongated spikes with bright yellow colour, resembling a candle or a candlestick. This is a truly unique plant, perfect for solitary cultivation.

Orontium aquaticum belongs to the Araceae family. It is native to the eastern United States, along the coast, in ponds, marshes, and shallow streams with low flow. It is a rosette-forming perennial plant that reaches a height of 40cm (16in) when in flower, with a spread of 60cm (24in). Its growth is relatively slow, and it often takes several years to achieve abundant flowering. This plant has leathery, waxy, simple lance-shaped leaves, measuring 25cm (10in) in length. They are acidic green when young, turning metallic bluish-green with a purple underside. The reddish petioles, shaped like a gouge at the base, can reach up to 40cm (16in) in length. The floral spikes, which bloom in summer, have a short lifespan. The parchment-like spathe is negligible and quickly withers, but the bright yellow spadix, measuring 15cm (6in) in length, stands out on a long stem. The rhizomes are thick, reddish, fleshy, and deeply rooted in the mud.

The Aquatic Goldenclub can withstand winter in a pond or basin, as long as it is submerged under at least 15cm (6in) of water to prevent freezing, but not deeper than 45cm (18in). It prefers a clayey and highly fertile soil. It is best to plant it in spring, after the frost has passed. Its foliage looks best in full sun or morning shade. Not invasive, it is preferable to place it in a space or pot (or basket) where it can remain, ideally in the mud at the bottom, as it does not like to be moved. Remove faded floral spikes as they appear.

The Candle Plant will be particularly striking in a large submerged container, with its base kept frost-free. It does not tolerate competition from other pond plants. It is best to reserve a clear spot for it, such as by waterfalls or in containers. It also thrives on muddy banks, along the edges of ponds, basins, marshes, and streams.

Its root was once consumed, cooked in multiple waters to remove the Calcium Oxalate crystals contained in its tissues. Its seeds, similar to small brownish-orange peas, underwent the same treatment and are said to be delicious.