Use App
Home City Plants Application
English
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Svenska
Polskie
ภาษาไทย
Bahasa Melayu
Bahasa Indonesia
email
Your free 7-day Premium hasn’t been claimed yet. Click to claim.
more icon close icon
about about
About
plant_info plant_info
More Info
distribution_map distribution_map
Distribution
topic topic
Care FAQ
more_plants more_plants
Related Plants
articles articles
Related Articles
pic top
Tape grass
Tape grass
Add to My Garden
Tape grass
Vallisneria spiralis
Also known as: Eel grass, Tapeweed
Tape grass (Vallisneria spiralis) is a tropical or subtropical plant that is commonly cultivated in aquariums. The leaves range in color from pale green to reddish and can grow up to 91 cm long. Vallisneria spiralis easily spreads and is considered an invasive introduced species in some regions.
Hardiness Zones
7 to 10
Hardiness Zones
plant_info

More Info

Flower Color
Flower Color
White
Bloom Time
Bloom Time
Summer, Fall
Leaf Color
Leaf Color
Green
distribution

Distribution Map

Habitat

Still and flowing water
distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
habit
question

Questions About Tape grass

Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
How much sunlight should Tape grass get per day to grow healthily?
Tape grass requires about 6 hours of direct and continuous sunlight daily. These are desirable to help them grow healthily, and this will help them grow faster. You might also want to provide these species with supplemental light during the winter with the help of lamps. The species need several hours of unobstructed sunlight to have vibrant foliage, so you might want to place them in the brightest areas of your garden or indoor nursery.
Read More more
Free
What type of sunlight does Tape grass need?
They are suited to a full sun and don't tend to tolerate shady areas. It's best to have at least 8 inches of space for each plant especially if you’re planting a lot of them so each can get a lot of sunlight. Generally, the Tape grass has a high demand for direct, full, and abundant sunlight. During summers, you can place them outside in the morning sun, so they will have enough light to grow.
They don't do well with partial sunlight and don't tolerate filtered or part shade. They might also not grow well when a huge tree constantly provides shade, so plant them in areas without obstruction.
Read More more
Free
Should I protect Tape grass from sun exposure?
The Tape grass should never avoid sun exposure because they seek and love the bright light. They love the sun so much that they require at least 6 hours of exposure regardless of the climate. Some areas, especially during the fall and spring, don't need protection because they require full sunlight. However, if you're located in a tropical climate or if the summer sun is too much, it's always possible to transfer the potted species inside until the temperature cools down again. Overall, you don't need to plant them near buildings, tall trees, and other structures because they need full sun for at least 6 hours.
Read More more
Free
What will happen if Tape grass gets inadequate sunlight?
If there's insufficient light, the Tape grass will not thrive. This is going to result in poor growth. Fungi and bacteria can feed on the plants' tissues, which are generally common for the plants grown in shady areas.
When the plants receive too little sunlight, they tend to become spindly. They will have weaker stems because they are constantly seeking to receive light, and this can result in wilting or brown leaves. You might want to see if there are insects present or a rhizome rot in Tape grass as this can be another sign that they are not receiving enough sunlight. If this is the case, put them in another area where they will receive bright and direct light to see if it will make a difference.
Read More more
lock
Does Tape grass need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?
During their growing phase, you need to expose the plants to the sun so that they don't have to stretch and grow upwards. You can avoid the process of etiolation and prevent the stems of Tape grass from growing weak. This is generally prevalent for those that are receiving no sun or are in a partially shaded area when they are young.
When they are already established and have matured, you also need to continuously expose them to a full sun because they need photosynthesis to grow more. When they are placed inside a greenhouse or a nursery for a very long time, and you decide to transfer them into a garden, you need to gradually introduce them to the bright lights. Still, you should never suddenly place them in direct heat, especially if it's mid-afternoon. They need a period to adapt and to become used to the intensity of sunlight in your area, so give them some much-needed time.
Read More more
lock
How much light does Tape grass need for photosynthesis?
As mentioned, the Tape grass needs 6 to 7 hours of direct sunlight to do the process of photosynthesis. This helps them produce enough food to grow. You can make this easier for yourself when you group them together and plant them in the same spot in your garden. This way, they will get enough of their light requirements to produce flowers, grow sturdy stems, and produce the glucose that they need for their food.
Read More more
lock
How to protect Tape grass from sun and heat damage?
As mentioned, the Tape grass loves the sun, but sometimes too much can hurt it. However, too much harsh sunlight can actually burn the leaves in the summer. When planted in the ground, you might want to add to their watering schedule so they will have protection. Exposure to the blades can result in sunburn, especially when the day's sun is too strong. It's highly recommended to spray some water to cool down the leaves a bit.
Read More more
lock
Are there any cautions or tips for sunlight and Tape grass?
You need to minimize transplanting shock, especially for the young and newly-planted Tape grass. These species will need time to adjust to their new environment but make sure to choose a location where they will get the full sunlight they need. The amount of sunlight matters as well as the season. Water them during the hottest days to reduce stress, and you might want to cover the young ones when the temperatures are extremely high. Row covers and shade cloths might be applicable for the younger ones, but the mature plants might not need them, especially if they already have established roots and stems. When you see that the Tape grass begins to lose its color, this might be because it is not receiving enough sunlight to do photosynthesis. There's not enough chlorophyll to depict a green color; if this is the case, you need to transfer it to an area receiving bright sunlight.
Read More more
lock
right
buy vip bg
You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.
Let us help take all the guesswork out of your gardening.
other_plant

Related Plants

Cape marguerite
Cape marguerite
Osteospermum ecklonis, commonly known as cape marguerite, is an evergreen, perennial small shrub with typical daisy-shaped white or purple flowers. It is cultivated as an ornamental in containers and borders. Flowers of this lovely plant are often visited by bees and other pollinators.
Bloom Time
Summer, autumn
Beggar's lice
Beggar's lice
Beggar's lice has small white flowers that bloom in mid-summer. The common name comes from the seeds of this plant, which are burrs and are very sticky. These burrs are extremely small and are very difficult to remove from clothing and pet fur. This method of seed dispersal is very effective for this plant, and if caught on clothing often times the entire seed stem, or even the whole plant will come out of the ground.
Bloom Time
Summer
Beach spider lily
Beach spider lily
Beach spider lily (Hymenocallis littoralis) is a bulbous perennial plant native to the south and eastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America. Beach spider lily has a distinctive appearance and is often cultivated for ornamental eye-catching displays.
Bloom Time
Early Summer,Mid Summer,Late Summer
Moreton bay fig
Moreton bay fig
Moreton bay fig (Ficus macrophylla) Is an evergreen tree and one of the largest cultivated fig trees that will grow from 23 to 55 m tall and 21 to 40 m wide. Known to live for more than 150 years, this tree grows an average of 91 cm per year. Blooms in summer, but flowers are inconspicuous. Produces edible figs that turn purple as they ripen in fall. Thrives in full sun and requires ample growing space.
Bloom Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Garden Usage
Plants of genus Ficus are often used in arbors and shrubs, as it usually grows large. If it is planted in a garden, choose a wide plot to give it enough space. It can also be planted in a flowerpot and maintained indoors at early stages, and transplanted to a garden later on. Its attractive green leaves require a warm, humid environment; we consider it a medium level difficulty plant to care.
Red maple
Red maple
The red maple is a common North American tree with distinctive red leaves and flower buds. Its sap can be made into maple syrup and the wood is good for furniture. Though non-toxic to humans, the leaves are very toxic to horses. According to the U.S. Forest Service, red maple is the most common tree in eastern North America.
Bloom Time
Spring
Garden Usage
The Maple is a plant of the genus Acer. The red maple is mainly used as a landscape tree because of its beautiful leaf color changes and elegant shape. The leaf color can change dramatically; colors include yellow, green, red, orange, pink, and purple. The red maple is often used as a garden shrub or as a potted plant.
Cotton fruit
Cotton fruit
Cotton fruit is a fast-growing fruit tree. It is commonly cultivated and the popular fruits are widely seasonally available in both local and international markets. There are two varieties that produce either yellow or red fruits. These varieties were once thought to be two distinct species. The fruit has various uses in Asian cuisine, however, care should be taken not to swallow the whole seeds for the risk of intestinal obstruction and perforation.
Bloom Time
Mid winter, Late winter, Early spring
View More Plants
article

Related Articles

Useful Tips
Most Common Herb
Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Fragrant plantain lily See More The trademark feature of Asia-native plantain lilies is the numerous glossy oval leaves with deep parallel veins. The Fragrant plantain lily is additionally decorated with strongly fragrant, trumpet-shaped, large white flowers, which are unique in the genus. Hosta plantaginea is one of the favorite cultivatedContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

Read More more
Useful Tips
Best Perennial Plant to Grow
Best Perennial Plant to Grow

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow Orange daylily See More The Orange daylily is a perennial plant known for its captivating lily-like blooms. Its natural habitats are meadows and forests, but it is also a common garden plant in temperate regions around the world. Each individual flower lasts only a day, but the plantContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Read More more
Useful Tips
Best Perennial Plant to Grow
Best Perennial Plant to Grow

Plant Collection Best Perennial Plant to Grow China rose See More The China rose (Rosa chinensis) is a Southwest China native. The plant has been cultivated for so long that it has become hard to tell the difference between wild and cultivated varieties. With medium-sized clusters of flowers and a long blooming season, it isContinue reading “Best Perennial Plant to Grow”

Read More more
Useful Tips
Most Common Herb
Most Common Herb

Plant Collection Most Common Herb Golden pothos See More The Golden pothos is a popular flowering house plant that’s commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including “devil’s ivy,” because it is so hard to kill, and can grow in the dark. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, soContinue reading “Most Common Herb”

Read More more
View More Articles
close
product icon
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400,000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify, grow, and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
ad
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
More Info
Distribution
Care FAQ
Related Plants
Related Articles
Tape grass
Tape grass
Add to My Garden
Tape grass
Vallisneria spiralis
Also known as: Eel grass, Tapeweed
Hardiness Zones
7 to 10
Hardiness Zones
plant_info

More Info

Flower Color
Flower Color
White
Bloom Time
Bloom Time
Summer, Fall
Leaf Color
Leaf Color
Green
distribution

Distribution Map

Habitat

Still and flowing water

Map

distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
question

Questions About Tape grass

Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
How much sunlight should Tape grass get per day to grow healthily?
more
Free
What type of sunlight does Tape grass need?
more
Free
Should I protect Tape grass from sun exposure?
more
Free
What will happen if Tape grass gets inadequate sunlight?
more
lock
Does Tape grass need special care about sunlight during its different growth stages?
more
lock
Show More more
buy vip bg
You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.
Let us help take all the guesswork out of your gardening.
product icon close
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify, grow, and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
product icon close
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400,000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Cookie Management Tool
In addition to managing cookies through your browser or device, you can change your cookie settings below.
Necessary Cookies
Necessary cookies enable core functionality. The website cannot function properly without these cookies, and can only be disabled by changing your browser preferences.
Analytical Cookies
Analytical cookies help us to improve our application/website by collecting and reporting information on its usage.
Cookie Name Source Purpose Lifespan
_ga Google Analytics These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here. 1 Year
_pta PictureThis Analytics We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience. 1 Year
Cookie Name
_ga
Source
Google Analytics
Purpose
These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here.
Lifespan
1 Year

Cookie Name
_pta
Source
PictureThis Analytics
Purpose
We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience.
Lifespan
1 Year
Marketing Cookies
Marketing cookies are used by advertising companies to serve ads that are relevant to your interests.
Cookie Name Source Purpose Lifespan
_fbp Facebook Pixel A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here. 1 Year
_adj Adjust This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here. 1 Year
Cookie Name
_fbp
Source
Facebook Pixel
Purpose
A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here.
Lifespan
1 Year

Cookie Name
_adj
Source
Adjust
Purpose
This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here.
Lifespan
1 Year
Download