880B-2-Spirodela-punctata-Ian-Clarke.jpg

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.
Photographer/s: 1 Helen Moss ©; 2 Ian Clarke, Royal Botanic Gardens Board ©

Plant Communities

  • 30 Swamp Gum Swampy Riparian Woodland (EVC 83)
  • 35 Floodplain Wetland Complex (EVC 172)
  • 47 Open Water - Reservoirs, lakes, etc (EVC 718)
  • Page 1 of 1