Species water lettuce

water lettuce

Pistia stratiotes

Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) is a beautiful aquatic plant often seen floating on the surface of stillwater bodies, such as ponds and lakes. Its vivid green, spoon-shaped leaves have ruffled edges like little feathers and their fronds appear to be suspended in midair. Constantly releasing oxygen, the plant absorbs large quantities of nitrogen compounds, thereby creating a balance in its aquatic environment. It also helps larvae and fish to thrive and helps keep water clean. Despite its delicate appearance, water lettuce is hardy and surprisingly tolerant of a broad range of growing conditions, and it is an effective natural plant filter.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Greenish-yellow to creamy white Flowers In Summer

Sun:

full sun

Fruits:

green Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

High

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Easy

watering

Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)should be watered lightly but frequently, as the plant likes to remain on the moist side. Generally, it is recommended to water it once every day or every other day, depending on the climate and the warmth of the room where the plant is located. If the temperature rises and the air is dry, increase watering frequency to every day. In areas with high humidity, it is enough to water once every 2 days.

sunlight

Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) thrives best in direct sunlight. The plant should be placed in a spot that receives at least 8-10 hours of bright, indirect sunlight per day. For best results, it should be placed in an area where it receives the most direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day.

pruning

Water lettuce, does not necessarily require pruning. Mature plants can be removed from the pond regularly especially on the growing season. Always check if the pond is over crowded, remove older plants to pave way for growing sprouts. Regular removal of older sprouts can be done once to twice a year during early summer.

Season

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

Water lettuce typically starts flowering in the summer months, usually between June and August.

Hardiness Map