PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Bright indirect to partial direct sunlight; avoid intense midday sun that can scorch fronds
Watering
Requires constant access to calm, still freshwater; avoid stagnant water with high ammonia levels
Temperature
Thrives in 18–28°C; temperatures below 10°C cause frond browning and stunted growth
Characteristics
- Fronds: Small oval to oblong floating fronds with water-repellent fine hairs
- Submerged Structures: Modified root-like fronds that absorb nutrients from water
- Growth Habit: Forms dense, interconnected floating mats on calm freshwater surfaces
Care Guide
Watering
Maintain consistent water level; replace 10–20% of water weekly to reduce nutrient buildup
Fertilization
Add diluted liquid aquatic plant fertilizer monthly. Use fertilizer formulated for floating aquatic plants to minimize algae bloom risk
Compost tea (diluted)：Dilute fully composted compost tea 1:50 with freshwater; add to pond/aquarium to provide gentle, low-concentration nutrients without water pollutionPruning
- Thin dense mats to prevent oxygen depletion in underlying water
- Remove brown or decaying fronds to maintain water clarity
- Trim excess growth to avoid overcrowding pond or aquarium space
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic; no poisoning risk from ingestion or contact
Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental aquatic plant for ponds and aquariums; competes with algae for nutrients to improve water clarity
