Water lettuce
Pistia stratiotes
Family : Araceae
Water lettuce is a floating plant with velvety rosette leaves. Very decorative and useful for shading the aquarium.
Description
Leaves are spoon-shaped, 5–15 cm, light green, covered with fine hairs making them hydrophobic. Roots are long and feathery, up to 30 cm. The plant reproduces via stolons, producing daughter rosettes. It absorbs nutrients effectively. Can become invasive in warm regions. In aquariums, it needs sufficient surface space.
Habitat
Region :
This floating plant grows in calm waters of tropical lakes, rivers, and marshes. It forms dense rosettes on the surface.
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Temperature 22–30°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate to high lighting (0.5–0.8 W/L) is beneficial. No substrate. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess rosettes regularly. Roots provide shelter for fry. Beware of snails that may damage leaves. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer.
Similar species
Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance
