Spirodela punctata

Thin Duckweed

Leaf-like rounded or egg-shaped-shaped herb with 2-8 roots, floating on water. Body is green above, tinged purplish below, with 3-7 veins. Single plants can join to form large colonies.

Additional information

SynonymSpirodela oligorrhiza, Landoltia punctata
FamilyAraceae (syn. Lemnaceae)
StoreyLower storey
Sizeplant 2-4 mm long x 1.2-2.5 mm wide
Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
Flowering timeSpring
FlowersMinute flowers form in a pouch near the margin on the lower surface, 1 female, 2 male. Young plants emerge from the pouch.
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 only from the Yarra Flats area. Uncommon in Victoria.