Lemna disperma

Common Duckweed

Leaf-like elliptic to rounded herb, 1-4mm long, with single root, floating on water. Body is slightly swollen, green above, reddish below, with 3-5 veins all rising from the same point. Single plants can join to form colonies.

Additional information

SynonymSeparated from Lemna minor, an introduced plant.
FamilyAraceae (syn. Lemnaceae)
StoreyLower storey
Sizeplants 1-4 mm long
Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
Flower colourWhite
Flowering timeSpring
FlowersMinute flowers on the margin, 1 male, 2 female. Young plants emerge from a pocket on the margin.
Bird attractingLeaves
Butterfly attractingNo
Frog habitatNo
Growing conditionsAquatic in still water.
Garden useQuick growing to form colonies on ponds and dams. Provide hiding places for fish.
Commercially availableNever
Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from very few local sites.
Related speciesThe weed species L. minor is less common. It is flat and has only 3 veins. If there are ever more then the outer veins branch from the inner veins. It grows 1-8 mm long.