Ivy-leaved Duckweed (Lemna trisulca)

Ivy-leaved Duckweed

Lemna trisulca

Tiny floating fronds drift like scattered emerald confetti. Aquatic floating perennial; common name: Ivy-leaved Duckweed.

Partial sun
continuous/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect sunlight or partial shade; avoid intense midday sun that may overheat shallow water habitats
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Watering Requires constant standing freshwater; maintain clean, stagnant or slow-moving water to support growth
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Temperature Thrives in 15–22°C; tolerates brief drops to 10°C but cannot survive freezing conditions
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Characteristics

  • Frond (Leaf): Oblong to lance-shaped, with a distinct basal notch, floating on water surface
  • Root: Single thin, thread-like root dangling below each frond
  • Flower: Inconspicuous tiny green flowers, rarely produced outside natural habitats
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent water level; top up with dechlorinated water as needed

Fertilization

Add diluted aquatic plant fertilizer once monthly. Use low-dose, aquatic-specific fertilizer to avoid water eutrophication

Freshwater aquarium runoff:Use water from weekly freshwater aquarium changes; add directly to water habitats to provide natural, low-concentration nutrients without chemical additives
Pruning
  • Thin overcrowded fronds to prevent oxygen depletion and maintain water clarity
  • Remove yellowed or decaying fronds promptly to avoid water fouling
  • Avoid disturbing root systems when thinning floating mats to prevent stress
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact

Humans: No known toxicity to humans; safe for incidental contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Aquatic oxygenator; provides shelter for small aquatic invertebrates and fry