Species European water clover
Green leaves with orange blades.

European water clover

Marsilea quadrifolia

European water clover (Marsilea quadrifolia) is an aquatic fern that can be found in stagnant water throughout much of Europe and some regions of North Africa and West Asia. Its leaves are composed of four clover-like leaflets with a fuzzy, green texture that provide shelter for micro-organisms and insects near the water's surface. While it is often used as an aquarium plant, it is often found in ponds, shallow streams, and marshes. It is valued for its hardiness and fast-growing nature, even in water with low nutritional content.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Stem Propagation,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

6 - 10

Flowers:

Non-flowering Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

European water clover should be watered once a week, using approximately 2-4 cups of water each time. When watering, pay close attention to the soil at the surface. The top inch should be moist, but the soil beneath should not be saturated. Allow any excess water to dry out before the next watering. Monitor the soil frequently through the season to ensure the plant remains healthy.

sunlight

European water clover needs at least 4-8 hours of direct sunlight each day to remain healthy and vigorous. Morning sunlight is often said to be most beneficial for plants, as long as it is not too intense. If direct sunlight is too intense, the European water clover should be partially shaded to help protect its leaves and prevent them from burning. Partial or filtered afternoon sun is also beneficial for this species, as it will prevent its leaves from wilting. If possible, it is best to avoid any direct sunlight in the afternoon and provide afternoon shade, particularly in warmer climates.

pruning

European water clover should be pruned in early spring as new growth is emerging. Cut back the clover to the ground, removing any dead, yellowed, or damaged leaves and stems. This will help the plant to grow in a bushy, upright form. Pruning should also be done in autumn to prevent the plant from becoming too large. Cut the clover back approximately 30-40 cm (12-16 in) from the soil level, taking care not to damage the root system.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

European water clover typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map