Water spangles - Salvinia minima (Care, Characteristics, Invasive, Images)

Water spangles

Also known as: Water fern, Round-leaf salvinia

Water spangles is a floating and rootless aquatic fern that reproduces through spores and fragmentation. It is a highly invasive species that successfully competes and replaces native species. Large colonies can block out the sun and deplete oxygen in the water, killing fish and other aquatic life.

Scientific classification

Species

Water spangles (Salvinia minima)

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Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Water spangles

Distribution of Water spangles

Distribution Map

Water spangles is native to freshwater ecosystems across the neotropical regions, thriving from Northern South America to Central America. Outside its native range, water spangles has been introduced in other parts of the world and is sometimes thought to be problematic, having the potential to impact local ecosystems. In areas where water spangles is cultivated, it is managed carefully to mitigate the risk of becoming invasive.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Shallow backwaters of bayous, lakes and ponds, oxbows, ditches, slow flowing streams, cypress swamps, and marshes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Water spangles

Every week

Water

Partial sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Potting Mix

Soil Type

Water: Originating from freshwater habitats, water spangles prefers environments that replicate its tropical zones. It needs moderate watering weekly for optimal moisture and humidity. Thriving outdoors, water spangles flourishes in nutrient-rich, pollutant-free water for robust growth.

Fertilize: For water spangles, use a balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer monthly during growth seasons and sparingly during cooler months. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength to prevent over-application, promoting healthy frond and root development while safeguarding the water ecosystem where water spangles thrives.

Pruning: Water spangles features small, floating leaves and flourishes in aquatic settings. Prune early to late spring to prevent overcrowding and decay, maintaining water quality. Regular trimming every few weeks promotes balanced growth and supports a healthy aquatic ecosystem.

Propagation: Water spangles is a fast-growing, free-floating aquatic fern that propagates mainly through fragmentation. Gardeners can cultivate it by placing healthy fragments on calm, nutrient-rich water surfaces. Careful growth control is necessary to avoid ecosystem disruption from overpopulation.

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