Marsilea quadrifolia
Marsilea quadrifolia · Marsileaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant marsilea quadrifolia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous to semi-evergreen depending on climate
- Growth habit
- Floating or semi-submerged aquatic plant
- Mature size
- 5 to 15 cm in height, carpet spreads 30 cm wide
- Growth rate
- Rapid under optimal conditions
- Hardiness
- Moderate (down to -5 °C with protection)
- Origin
- Europe, Asia, North Africa
- Natural habitat
- Ponds, marshes and shallow waters
Care
Aquatic immersion
Keep the Four-Leaf Clover Fern in shallow water, 5 to 30 cm deep depending on the variety. Change the water partially on a regular basis to prevent waste buildup. In a pond or aquarium, ensure the water doesn't become stagnant and polluted.
Light and placement
Prefer partial shade to full sun exposure (at least 4 to 6 hours of daily light). In an aquarium, use lighting suitable for aquatic plants. Insufficient light slows growth and weakens the foliage.
Substrate and anchoring
Use a substrate rich in organic matter (peat, aquatic soil or silt). The rhizomes should be slightly embedded in the substrate to root properly. Check that the plant remains stable and doesn't float excessively.
Moderate fertilization
Apply a liquid fertilizer specialized for aquatic plants once a month during the growing season. In an aquarium, certain fertilizers containing micro and macronutrients promote harmonious development. Excess nutrients can encourage unwanted algae.
Vigilance and prevention
The Four-Leaf Clover Fern fears rot in stagnant water and infestations of filamentous algae. Maintain good water circulation and ecological balance. Remove dead or damaged parts as soon as you spot them.
Did you know?
The Four-Leaf Clover Fern has a unique leaf structure: its four leaflets resemble a four-leaf clover, hence its nickname. In Asia, it has long been consumed as an aquatic vegetable, and its presence in rice paddies was once considered an indicator of soil quality. It's also a pioneering plant highly appreciated in aquascaping for creating natural carpets.
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.