Water flaxseed
Lemna minuta · Araceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant water flaxseed: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Araceae
- Plant type
- Floating aquatic
- Adult size
- 2 to 5 mm diameter per frond
- Growth
- Very rapid
- Hardiness
- Moderate (0 to 15 °C depending on strains)
- Origin
- South and Central America
- Foliage
- Evergreen (in optimal conditions)
- Reproduction
- Vegetative by budding
Care
Watering and water conditions
Lemna minuta doesn't require watering in the classical sense since it floats on water. Maintain a minimum water depth of 10 to 30 cm to allow it to develop freely. Change part of the water regularly to prevent the accumulation of decomposing matter and maintain good hydrological quality.
Light exposure
Place your pond or aquarium in a location receiving at least 5 to 6 hours of natural light per day. Indirect light exposure is sufficient, but moderate light promotes balanced growth. Avoid permanently shaded areas that would slow down its multiplication.
Substrate and dissolved nutrients
Lemna minuta absorbs nutrients directly through its fine roots immersed in water. A substrate is not necessary, but the water must contain essential minerals (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium). Well-balanced pond water or slightly enriched water works perfectly.
Fertilization
If the plant yellows or slows its growth, a very diluted liquid fertilizer for aquatic plants can be beneficial. Light monthly fertilization is generally sufficient. Avoid overdosing, which would promote eutrophication and unwanted algae proliferation.
Management and control
Lemna minuta proliferates very rapidly and can overtake the surface. Thin it out regularly by removing some fronds if it becomes too dense. Use a fine net or skimmer to facilitate harvesting without disturbing the aquatic ecosystem.
Problems and prevention
This plant is generally very robust. The main concerns are excessive proliferation or loss of vigor linked to stagnant or polluted water. Maintain slight water circulation and change part of the volume regularly to prevent any dysfunction.
Did you know?
Lemna minuta is one of the world's smallest flowering aquatic plants, with fronds just a few millimeters across. Despite its tiny size, it can cover an entire pond in just a few weeks thanks to its exceptionally rapid vegetative reproduction, making it a challenge for natural wetland managers.
Where to buy it
Best planted in spring or autumn, away from frost and heatwaves. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September, October.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.