Lemna trisulca
Lemna trisulca · Araceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant lemna trisulca: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Plant type
- Floating aquatic plant
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Growth
- Very fast
- Hardiness
- Moderate (0 to 15 °C depending on varieties)
- Origin
- Temperate Eurasia
- Natural habitat
- Stagnant and slow-moving waters (ponds, ditches, lakes)
Care
Aquatic environment
Lemna trisulca is cultivated submerged or floating in fresh water. Maintain a water depth of 10 to 30 cm depending on your tank or pond. Ensure light water circulation to avoid completely stagnant water, while favoring a calm environment without strong currents.
Lighting
This duckweed appreciates a bright exposure of 4 to 8 hours daily minimum. It tolerates partially shaded areas in ponds or aquariums, but grows more vigorously in good indirect light or under suitable horticultural lighting.
Substrate and water
Lemna trisulca does not need traditional substrate. It absorbs its nutrients directly from the water. Neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.5 to 7.5) and soft water are ideal. Regularly check water quality to prevent accumulation of organic waste.
Nutrition
Feed your duckweed with balanced aquatic fertilizer (micro and macronutrients) every 2 to 3 weeks during active growth. Extra iron promotes dense, colorful foliage. Limit applications in winter if growth slows.
Maintenance and control
Duckweed triples in volume very quickly. Regularly thin out colonies by removing excess fronds to maintain ecological balance and allow light through. Remove between 20 and 40% of the biomass each week depending on your system.
Pests and problems
Lemna trisulca is generally hardy. Watch for excess filamentous algae (sign of eutrophy) and detritus accumulation. Lack of light causes etiolated growth. Snails and certain fish are effective natural predators in aquariums.
Did you know?
Lemna trisulca bears the nickname "ivy duckweed" because its tiny three-lobed fronds resemble lentils from the kitchen. In Asia, some duckweeds (genus Spirodela) have long served as bioindicators of aquatic pollution, while Lemna trisulca has established itself in botanical research as a model for extremely rapid growth, doubling its biomass in 24 to 48 hours under optimal conditions.
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.