Hairy Water Clover

Marsilea hirsuta

Family : Marsileaceae

PlantFreshwatergazonnante

A carpeting plant with clover-like leaves, forming a low, dense mat. It resembles a tiny water clover.

Hairy Water Clover — photo 1 sur 4
Jeffdelonge · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 4
Popularity
Carpet (advanced)
CO₂ + intense light
Availability
Order only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern

Description

Marsilea hirsuta is an aquatic fern that produces four-leaflet leaves resembling a clover. The leaves are slightly hairy (hence 'hirsuta') and measure 1–2 cm across. It spreads via stolons and can quickly cover the substrate. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light and adapts to varied conditions. It can form a dense carpet or remain more sparse depending on lighting. It is ideal for the foreground and natural aquascapes. Growth is moderate and it does not require CO2, but benefits from it.

Habitat

Region :

Wetlands, marshes, pond edges

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature1826 °C
pH67.5
GH212 °dGH
KH15 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 2 mg/L
CO₂
≤ 20 mg/L
Light
Medium

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Photosynthetic
Min. tank
20 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
5 cm
Lifespan
3 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Stolons

Care notes

Parameters: temperature 18–26°C, pH 6–7.5, GH 2–12, KH 1–5. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. Moderate to high light (0.3–0.5 W/L), CO2 optional (max 20 mg/L). Nutrient-rich substrate recommended. Compatible with all peaceful fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming to maintain height. Avoid fish that dig up stolons. Can be planted in small pieces spaced 3–5 cm apart for a uniform carpet.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References