Phenological growth stages of Alisma plantago‐aquatica L. according to the basic BBCH scale

Abstract Alisma plantago‐aquatica L. is a perennial herbaceous plant from the Alismataceae family, with high medicinal value. Currently, A. plantago‐aquatica is extensively cultivated through artificial means. However, the research on A. plantago‐aquatica is concentrated on its pharmacological and pharmacodynamic effects, while its phenological growth characteristics have not yet been reported. In this study, the phenological growth of A. plantago‐aquatica was monitored based on the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt and Chemische Industrie (BBCH) scale. Nine primary growth stages, including Germination (S0), Leaf development (S1), Rosette growth (S3), Tuber formation (S4), Inflorescence emergence (S5), Flowering (S6), Development and maturity of fruit (S7), Seed maturity (S8), and Senescence (S9), were specifically outlined. The given phenological scale is supposed to offer researchers systematic botanical data on A. plantago‐aquatica . It also emphasizes the timing of peduncle development and seed maturation, aiding cultivators in implementing timely intervention measures, optimizing cultivation management, and increasing the yield of medicinal plants. As far as we know, this is the first time that the extended BBCH scale has been utilized to code and describe the growth and development pattern of A. plantago‐aquatica . In conclusion, it not only lays the foundation for other studies on A. plantago‐aquatica but also can support cultivators in field management.