PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Full to partial sun; tolerates dappled shade in intense tropical heat
Watering
Grows in shallow, still or slow-moving freshwater; maintain consistent water depth
Temperature
Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; avoid drops below 12°C to prevent leaf dieback
Characteristics
- Leaf: Pinnately compound, touch-sensitive leaflets that fold when disturbed
- Flower: Round, bright yellow pom-pom inflorescences, 1–2 cm in diameter
- Stem: Slender, floating or trailing stems with adventitious roots at nodes
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain water depth of 5–15 cm; refresh 20% of water weekly to prevent stagnation
Fertilization
Diluted aquatic fertilizer monthly. Use low-nitrogen fertilizer to minimize algal growth
Composted banana peel tea：Fully compost banana peels, dilute 1:40 with dechlorinated water, and pour into the pond; avoid adding solid peels to prevent odorPruning
- Trim overgrown trailing stems to maintain a compact floating mat shape
- Remove yellowing or damaged fronds to improve water circulation and appearance
- Thin dense patches to allow sunlight to reach submerged lower foliage
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats
Humans: Non-toxic; young shoots and leaves are edible when cooked
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Edible young shoots and leaves (cooked); ornamental floating aquatic plant
