Eared Salvinia
salvinia auriculata
Also known as: ["Cultivated Salvinia","Eared Watermoss"]
Overview
A small, free-floating aquatic fern with distinctive egg-shaped leaf pairs and submerged roots.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Salviniales |
| Family: | Salviniaceae |
| Genus: | Salvinia |
| Botanical Name: | Salvinia auriculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: still or slow-moving freshwater ponds, aquariums, or indoor water gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: not required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate, focusing on selective removal of older or leggy stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, ensure it is near a bright window but out of direct rays. Outdoor placement should be in a shaded area with dappled light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
daily in extreme heat, otherwise as needed to maintain water level
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
not applicable (aquatic)
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates slight fluctuations but thrives in stable, warm conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain stable temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
rarely required, only if growth is poor
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting, apply rooting hormone if using, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for added aeration.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or bud to promote new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged foliage, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Check for dead/damaged foliage, sterilize tools, prune selectively, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, with a diameter 1–2 inches wider.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and always allow excess water to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in cold conditions; wilting or brown leaf tips in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage, leading to yellowing or browning of leaves.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location, protect it from drafts, and avoid overwatering during cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with a mister or humidifier, and ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSalvinia auriculata is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicSalvinia auriculata is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicSalvinia auriculata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and environmental use.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Salvinia auriculata invasive?
A: Yes, it can become invasive in warm, still water bodies, forming dense mats that disrupt aquatic ecosystems.
Q: How does Salvinia auriculata reproduce?
A: It reproduces vegetatively through fragmentation and can also produce dormant buds called gemmules.
Q: Can Salvinia auriculata be grown in a home aquarium?
A: Yes, it is often used in aquariums and ponds for its aesthetic appeal and ability to provide shade and cover for fish.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Salviniaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | daily in extreme heat, otherwi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
