MARSILEACEAE

n/a

Rhizomatous, perennial, semi-aquatic fern, less than 20 cm high, with silky floating leaves. Appears as a mat of glossy green carpet. Distinctive fronds appear clover-like. Produces spores from capsules (sporocarps) from Nov-Mar.

Ephemeral swamps, stationary and slow-moving water bodies, and adjacent drying areas. Prefers damp places in seasonally waterlogged soils in full sun. Prefers 300 to 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina region. Dislikes drought.

Propagate by spores or division. Fast growth rate. Fruits as waters recede. Following dry periods, old plants are capable of re-absorbing water and growing.

Attractive plant for bog gardens, pond edges, and aquaria. Without being invasive, may cover large areas in ideal situations. First Nations People made edible flour from the sporocarps. Toxic to stock when grazed heavily.