Araceae
Tropical duckweed: Ground Cover Plant
Lemna aequinoctialis
Maintain in nutrient-rich water with moderate to high light. Periodically remove excess to prevent complete surface coverage.
Every 1 days
Partial shade
15° - 32°C
60% - 100%
Categories
What is Tropical duckweed?
Tropical duckweed (Lemna aequinoctialis) is a easy-care plant from the Araceae family. Lemna aequinoctialis, commonly known as tropical duckweed, is a tiny floating aquatic plant that thrives in still or slow-moving water. It consists of oval green fronds and a single dangling root. It is known for its ability to quickly cover water surfaces, aiding in algae control and serving as a b...
Tropical duckweed grows up to 1cm, spread of 100cm, watering every 1 days, 15°C – 32°C, 60–100% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Tropical duckweed tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Tropical duckweed is safe to keep around pets. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 7 days.
How to Care for Tropical duckweed?
TLDR: Tropical duckweed needs Partial shade, watering every 1 days, and temperatures between 15-32°C with 60-100% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Tropical duckweed?
Ensure water is changed or filtered to prevent excessive stagnation and debris accumulation.
How Much Light Does Tropical duckweed Need?
Prefers bright indirect light but can tolerate full sun if the water does not overheat.
What Is the Best Soil for Tropical duckweed?
Does not require soil; it grows floating in the water column with dissolved nutrients.
What Pot Should You Use for Tropical duckweed?
Aquariums, ornamental ponds, or shallow, open water containers
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
What Is Tropical duckweed and Where Does It Come From?
Lemna aequinoctialis, commonly known as tropical duckweed, is a tiny floating aquatic plant that thrives in still or slow-moving water. It consists of oval green fronds and a single dangling root. It is known for its ability to quickly cover water surfaces, aiding in algae control and serving as a bioindicator of water quality.
How to Propagate Tropical duckweed?
Vegetative Division
- A single healthy frond is enough to start an entire new colony.
- 1 Natural Separation
The plant naturally divides by lateral budding.
- 2 Transfer
Simply move a few fronds to a new body of water with nutrients.
- 3 Acclimation
Maintain a stable water temperature to accelerate colonization.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Tropical duckweed Grow?
TLDR: Tropical duckweed can reach up to 1cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1cm
Spread
1.0m
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Evergreen
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Edible
Can be consumed
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Medicinal Uses
- Used in phytoremediation studies to remove heavy metals from water
Culinary Uses
- Protein supplement for animal feed
- Occasional human consumption in some Asian cultures after cooking
Is your plant showing symptoms?
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Meaning & Symbolism
Represents adaptability and the purification of waters.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Iberian Houseleek | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
