About
Slowly spreading aquatic perennial fern, usually grown in shallow water. Glossy, dark green leaves, with pale green central marbling patterns are 2-3cm across, formed of 4 triangular leaflets that float on the water surface on long stalks.
About the genus
Marsilea can be aquatic, marginal or terrestrial, rhizomatous ferns forming mats of clover-like leaves with 4 fan-shaped leaflets
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAquatic, Ferns
HabitSpreading branched, Floating
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1-1.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesShaded borders, woodland gardens, underplanting.
Native toAustralia, New Caledonia
Care notes
CultivationGrow in rich soil, in muddy pool margins or in lattice baskets filled with loamy soil at a depth of no more than 15cm in full sun. See pond plants for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division of rhizomes in summer; peg down in shallow water
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free