Greater Duckweed
spirodela polyrrhiza
Also known as: ["common duckweed","duckmeat","water lentil"]
Overview
A small, free-floating aquatic plant with simple oval leaves that form dense mats on still water surfaces.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Araceae |
| Genus: | Spirodela |
| Botanical Name: | Spirodela polyrrhiza |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: still or slow-moving freshwater ponds, lakes, or aquariums
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–10"}
- Misting: not applicable
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; soil should remain moist but not waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content; can also thrive in aquatic environments.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few weeks during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with tolerance for partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; avoid placing in scorching midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
daily in extreme heat, otherwise as needed to maintain water level
Keep soil perpetually moist; avoid waterlogging by ensuring proper drainage; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Soil
not applicable, grows in water
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Warm to hot temperatures, ideally 20–30°C (68–86°F); thrives in warm water environments.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; adjust care based on seasonal changes; protect from extreme cold or heat.
Fertilizing
rarely required, monthly if in nutrient-poor water
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burning; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Vegetative propagation via division of rhizomes or fragmentation of plant bodies.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate small plantlets from the parent.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Ensure adequate light and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with bright light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Water or moist soil; can also be propagated in aquatic setups.
Hormone
Not typically required for this species.
Timeline
Rapid growth; new plants can establish within 1–2 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, small containers, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants for propagation; maintain high humidity; provide bright light.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or decaying leaves at the base; avoid cutting healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; remove dead or decaying leaves to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead leaves; use clean tools; remove only necessary parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 cm (1–1.5 inches) if repotting.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure proper drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes overcrowded or the soil degrades; typically every 1–2 years.
Checklist
Choose the right time; use fresh soil; handle roots carefully; ensure good drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water thoroughly but gently; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water gently at the soil surface to avoid disturbing the small plant; ensure even moisture distribution; allow excess water to drain away to prevent stagnation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water daily to maintain consistently moist soil; adjust for rainfall and high temperatures by increasing frequency.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or organic matter to enhance fertility and structure; ensure good aeration by mixing in perlite or sand.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme cold or heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death; plants may become dormant or die in freezing conditions.
Solution: Protect from frost; move to a warmer location or provide a heat source; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced vigor; may lead to dehydration if water supply is insufficient.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 2–4 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSpirodela polyrrhiza is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSpirodela polyrrhiza is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in this plant that would cause harm to canines if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSpirodela polyrrhiza, commonly known as common duckweed, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse health effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Spirodela polyrrhiza toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does duckweed reproduce?
A: It reproduces asexually by budding new fronds from the mother plant.
Q: Can duckweed be used for water purification?
A: Yes, it is often used in wastewater treatment due to its ability to absorb excess nutrients.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Araceae |
| Care: | very 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
