Floating watermoss (Salvinia natans)

Floating watermoss

Also known as: Water butterfly wings, Giant salvinia, Floating salvinia

Floating watermoss (Salvinia natans) is found in freshwater lakes in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America. It is, in fact, not a moss, but a floating fern. The leaves contain air pockets that keep them afloat. The shade produced by floating watermoss makes good living spaces for many species of fish.

Scientific classification

Species

Floating watermoss (Salvinia natans)

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Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

8 cm to 8 cm

Plant Height

Deciduous

Leaf type

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Floating watermoss

Distribution Map

Floating watermoss is a floating aquatic plant primarily native to a wide range of Eurasian regions, stretching from the Mediterranean Basin through Central Europe to East and Southeast Asia. It is cultivated and has also been introduced in the Caribbean and Central Europe. Its adaptability allows it to thrive across diverse freshwater environments beyond its original habitat.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Ponds, lakes

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Floating watermoss

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Thriving in high humidity and consistent moisture, floating watermoss requires weekly watering and tolerates brief dryness. In indoor settings, it serves as an ornamental floatant, thriving in stable temperatures and water features that mimic its native habitats, flourishing with adequate water availability.

Fertilize: Floating watermoss flourishes with biweekly liquid fertilization during the growing season, using balanced or high-nitrogen formulas. Avoid over-fertilization to protect aquatic environments. Adjust application frequency and dilute fertilizers during dormancy to ensure even distribution and prevent nutrient runoff.

Pruning: Floating watermoss features floating, fern-like leaves and thrives with regular pruning in early to late spring to manage growth. Trim dead or yellowing leaves for improved water quality and light. Thinning during the growing season ensures balance in water gardens, preventing overshadowing of other plants.

Propagation: Floating watermoss is a free-floating aquatic fern that thrives in calm waters and propagates through vegetative means. It can be easily divided by rhizomes to promote rapid spread, supporting aquatic habitats and improving water quality by absorbing excess nutrients.

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