Water Caltrop Bat Nut or Ling Nut Wicked Looking Aquatic Food

Happy Halloween! How about that! This in an interesting aquatic food that grows well in a container. 

The Ling Nut, Trapa bicormis, is a floating aquatic plant that grows best in slow moving or stagnant water, such as a pond, container or aquarium. It develops corms that are cooked, the interior eaten plain, fried or made in to butters and dips (similar to humus) for consumption. 

Very nutritious containing high amounts of fiber, potassium, magnesium, copper, vitamin B6 and riboflavin. Most of their calories come from carbs. Leaves, shells and nuts have also medicinal properties.

Submerged stem are anchored into the mud by very fine roots. It has two types of leaves, finely divided feather-like submerged leaves borne along the length of the stem, and undivided floating leaves borne in a rosette at the water's surface. 

 The plant can become invasive in some areas, a large container is recommended. Needs at least 6 months of frost free growing time.

Excess nuts can be dried are highly sought after and used for crafting for amulets, key ring adornment, ornaments and many other crafts.

Viable corms (USA):  Found here

 
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