Lemna trisulca aka Ivy Leaved Duckweed

Taxonomy

Lemna trisulca, commonly known as ivy-leaf duckweed, is a species of aquatic plants in the arum family Araceae with a subcosmopolitan distribution, occurring in quiet, freshwater habitats in cool, temperate regions. Normally, it does not occur in warm, temperate regions. The non-flowering plant is composed of a flat frond about 6-12 mm. long and 2-5 mm. across (excluding the basal stalk), which is ovate-oblong or lanceolate-oblong in shape and mostly toothless along the outer margin, except toward its tip, where poorly defined small teeth occur. The base of the frond tapers abruptly into a narrow and flat basal stalk that is 8-20 mm. long when it is fully developed. When it flowers, it floats on the surface of the water, and the frond is more oval in shape and has a shorter basal stalk. As a houseplant, Lemna trisulca needs regular watering and direct, long-lasting light and should be less than 1 foot away from a window. It also likes soil that is well-draining and should be supplemented occasionally with a gentle, organic fertilizer throughout the peak growing season.

Common names

Ivy Leaved Duckweed, Star Duckweed, Narrow Leaf Duckweed

How to care for Ivy Leaved Duckweed

Difficulty

If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Ivy Leaved Duckweed is a great choice to test your gardening skills.

Water

Ivy Leaved Duckweed should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Ivy Leaved Duckweed loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Ivy Leaved Duckweed requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Star Duckweed is always in the right place to thrive.

Toxicity

There is no verified data on the toxicity of this plant in the records of Ploi. If any person, including yourself, a family member, or a pet, consume plant material with an uncertain toxicity level, it is advisable to seek the advice of a healthcare expert.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the Ivy Leaved Duckweed as it grows vertically.

Region of origin

Ivy Leaved Duckweed’s native range is Europe, including Britain, from Scandanavia south and east to N. Africa, Asia, N. America, Australia.


More info:
Wikipedia