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Water spangles

Salvinia natans · Salviniaceae

The gardener's calendar

The right move for September

Ideal time to plant water spangles: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.

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ID card

Type
Floating aquatic fern
Foliage
Evergreen
Adult size
5 to 10 cm in height
Growth
Very fast
Hardiness
Frost-tender (0 to 5°C minimum)
Origin
Africa, Asia and South America
Environment
Freshwater, ponds and basins

Care

Aquatic environment

Salvinia natans is a floating plant that lives entirely at the water surface or slightly submerged. Maintain sufficient water depth (minimum 10 cm) and ensure gentle circulation to prevent stagnation. In an outdoor basin, the plant feeds on minerals naturally present in the water.

Light

Place your salvinia in a well-lit location, ideally 6 to 8 hours of direct light per day. Good lighting promotes vigorous growth and dense, structured foliage. Indoors, a spot near a south or west-facing window is recommended.

Maintenance and control

Salvinia natans grows very quickly and can become invasive. Thin out regularly by removing excess fronds to maintain the balance of your basin or aquarium. Harvest portions with a net; this operation encourages well-proportioned growth.

Nutrition

In an aquarium, add a balanced liquid fertilizer (macro and micronutrients) once or twice a week, especially if you don't have a rich fauna (fish) producing nutritional waste. In a well-established outdoor basin, fertilizing is generally unnecessary.

Substrate and water

Salvinia natans requires no substrate since it floats freely. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6 to 7) and prefers temperatures between 18 and 28°C. Water that is too cold slows its growth.

Pests and problems

This fern is generally resistant. In an overcrowded or poorly maintained aquarium, it may suffer from nutrient deficiencies resulting in yellowing fronds. Check your water's chemical balance and clean filters regularly to prevent the buildup of organic debris.

Did you know?

Salvinia natans has acquired a notorious reputation as an invasive species in Asia and Africa: it can double its biomass in a week and form mats so dense they block light and suffocate aquatic life. Paradoxically, this tiny floating fern is also deliberately cultivated in amateur aquariums as an excellent hiding place for fry and a natural oxygen producer.

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.