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tropical waterclover

Scientific Name: Marsilea ancylopoda

Family: Marsileaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Marsilea: The Water Clover

Marsilea is a genus of approximately 65 species of aquatic ferns belonging to the family Marsileaceae. These plants, often called water clover or f-leaf clover, have an unusual appearance that sets them apart from more commonly recognized ferns.

Considerations for Pets

  • Some species have creeping growth habits, which may make them accessible to pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Marsilea L.
  • Family: Marsileaceae
  • Common Names: Water clover, f-leaf clover, pepperwort, cloven fern.
  • Examples of Species:
    • Marsilea ancylopoda A. Braun (Tropical Water Clover)
    • Marsilea crenata
    • Marsilea mutica
    • Marsilea quadrifolia (European Water Clover)
    • Marsilea hirsuta R. Br. (Rough Water Clover)
    • Marsilea polycarpa (Guayanan Water Clover)
    • Marsilea vestita tenuifolia (Hairy Water Clover)
    • Marsilea strigosa (Waterclover)
    • Marsilea costulifera (Tropical Waterclover)
    • Marsilea minuta
  • Synonyms:
    • Marsilea berteroi A. Braun (synonym for Marsilea ancylopoda)
    • Marsilea mexicana A. (synonym, possibly for Marsilea ancylopoda)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Marsilea species are found in various regions, including:
    • Tropical regions
    • Madagascar and the Comoros
    • Tropical Asia
    • Warmer parts of the Western Hemisphere (for Marsilea ancylopoda)
    • Australia (for Marsilea strigosa)
    • Tropical Africa (for Marsilea minuta)

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Small, creeping ferns.
  • Erect 4-foliolate leaves.
  • Some species, like Marsilea mutica, have F-lobed leaves with bronze patterns on floating and aerial leaves.
  • Mature plant height of Marsilea mutica can reach around 6 inches.

Ecological Role

  • Marsilea ancylopoda is a forb/herb, meaning it's a non-woody plant that is not a grass.
  • Some species are fast-spreading.

Quirky Facts

  • Some varieties of Marsilea, such as Marsilea mutica, are sold as "F Leaf Water Clover" and are considered a charming addition to water gardens.
  • There are references to finding a "f-leaf clover" when planting Marsilea quadrifolia, playing on the good luck charm of a four-leaf clover.

Further Information

  • Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Panama
  • Discover Life
  • Garden Guides
  • TopTropicals.com
  • ContainerWaterGardens.net