Asiatic Mosquito Fern
azolla pinnata
Also known as: ["Mosquito Fern","Duckweed Fern","Fairy Moss"]
Overview
A small, free-floating aquatic fern with delicate, feathery fronds, often forming dense mats on still water surfaces.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Polypodiopsida |
| Order: | Salviniales |
| Family: | Azollaceae |
| Genus: | Azolla |
| Botanical Name: | Azolla pinnata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: still or slow-moving freshwater ponds, rice paddies, or aquariums
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: not applicable, as it naturally thrives in water
- Drainage: Poor drainage tolerated; prefers consistently wet conditions.
- Soil Type: Moist, nutrient-poor soil; can grow in water or on damp surfaces.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; remove debris regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day. Tolerates partial shade but may grow slower.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid full sun; rotate container for even growth; provide shade during peak hours.
Watering
daily, as it is a floating aquatic plant requiring constant water coverage
Maintain surface moisture; avoid waterlogging; use rainwater or distilled water to prevent mineral buildup.
Soil
not applicable, as it floats on water surfaces
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Keep soil wet; avoid dry periods; use peat-based mix if planting in soil.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, 20–30°C (68–86°F). Prefers stable temperatures; avoid frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain humidity in hot climates.
Fertilizing
rarely required, as it fixes nitrogen symbiotically with Anabaena
Use low-nitrogen fertilizer; fertilize sparingly; apply during active growth.
Propagation
Methods
Division; separate small clumps and replant in moist medium.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect healthy clumps.
- Separate gently.
- Replant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid; partial shade; still water or moist soil.
Medium
Moist soil or water; can thrive in nutrient-poor conditions.
Hormone
Not necessary.
Timeline
Quick establishment within days; rapid growth thereafter.
Tools Needed
Fine-tipped tweezers, small container.
Quick Tips
Use healthy specimens; keep medium consistently moist; avoid overcrowding.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Gentle removal of dead parts; no specific technique required.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain health.
Tools
Fine-tipped tweezers, small scissors.
Checklist
Check for dead fronds; remove gently; avoid disturbing healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring or early summer.
Pot Size
No size increase needed; focus on thinning if overcrowded.
Method
Gently separate clumps; replant in fresh, moist medium; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required; may thin out if overcrowded.
Checklist
Assess density; separate gently; replant in moist medium; maintain conditions.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check moisture daily; use soft water; avoid direct streams; ensure even coverage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water gently to avoid dislodging the plant; ensure even coverage across the surface; allow excess to drain if in a container.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep the medium consistently moist; water daily or as needed to prevent drying. Adjust frequency based on temperature and humidity, increasing in dry conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter if soil is too compact; ensure consistent moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, browning, or cessation of growth in cold; bleaching or drying in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth halts; leaves may turn brown or black; risk of death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate containers; avoid exposure to frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may bleach or dry out; growth slows; risk of desiccation in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently to prevent drying.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth needs; use diluted solution; avoid overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Generally not required due to nitrogen-fixing ability; supplement with diluted liquid fertilizer if growth is poor.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAzolla pinnata is not toxic to cats. The plant has no known adverse effects on feline health when encountered in typical settings.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicAzolla pinnata does not pose a toxic risk to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicAzolla pinnata is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal conditions. It is commonly used in aquatic ecosystems for its nitrogen-fixing capabilities and as a biofertilizer.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Azolla pinnata a true fern?
A: Yes, it is a small aquatic fern belonging to the family Azollaceae.
Q: How does Azolla pinnata benefit the environment?
A: It fixes atmospheric nitrogen, improves water quality, and provides habitat for aquatic organisms.
Q: Can Azolla pinnata be grown in a garden pond?
A: Yes, it thrives in still or slow-moving freshwater environments like garden ponds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Azollaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | daily, as it is a floating aqu |
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