Nephrophyllidium crista-galli (Nephrophyllidium Crista Galli) — an easy houseplant, prefers partial sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Nephrophyllidium crista-galli

Nephrophyllidium Crista Galli

Updated · 12 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Nephrophyllidium is a monotypic genus of aquatic flowering plants in the family Menyanthaceae. The sole species is Nephrophyllidium crista-galli. They are wetland plants with basal reniform and crenate leaves. Flowers are five-parted and white, and the petals are adorned with lateral wings and a midline keel. Nephrophyllidium is most nearly related to Menyanthes, which is very similar in habit. The genus name is derived from the kidney-shaped leaves (Greek: nephros = kidney and phyllon = leaf), and the specific epithet refers to the curled petal edges (Latin: crista galli = cockscomb). Nephrophyllidium crista-galli is found in the Pacific Northwest of America, and in Japan, where it can be called subspecies japonicum (Franch.) Yonek. & H.Ohashi. Nephrophyllidium is commonly known as deer cabbage. The IAPT determined that a prior synonym for the genus, Fauria Franch., too closely resembled the genus Faurea (Proteaceae), and thus conserved Nephrophyllidium as the accepted genus name.

A note from PlantMom

Deer cabbage is disease-resistant and generally unlikely to develop illnesses. Regarding upkeep, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outside it needs little watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller specimens, however, should be trimmed after they finish blooming. Deer cabbage is appropriate for anyone with outdoor space — for example a garden or a deck — and it doesn't demand much prior plant-care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Nephrophyllidium Crista Galli.

Light

Deer cabbage naturally occurs in habitats like forest understories or rocky areas, where it is subject to natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, showing its versatility and hardiness.

Fertilizer

Fertilize your Deer cabbage in early spring to encourage healthy growth. Regular feeding boosts overall vigor, producing strong growth, greater tolerance of harsh conditions, and improved resistance to pests and diseases. Keep to a consistent fertilization schedule to preserve foliage that is vibrant, deeply colored, and lush.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Nephrophyllidium
Family
Menyanthaceae
Hardiness Zone
7-9
Mature Height
15 cm to 61 cm
Mature Spread
20 cm to 40 cm
Leaf Color
Dark Green
Leaf Type
Deciduous
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
Bloom Time
Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Spring, Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Early fall
Native Area
United States, Canada
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en Deer-cabbage
PLATES
Nephrophyllidium crista-galli flower
PLATE 01 · flower
Nephrophyllidium crista-galli flower
PLATE 02 · flower