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Chihuahuan waterclover
Scientific Name: Marsilea mollis
Family: Marsileaceae
Category: Fern
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Marsilea: The Water Clover
Marsilea is a genus of aquatic ferns comprising approximately 65 species. These plants, belonging to the family Marsileaceae, are noted for their unusual appearance, which differs significantly from that of common ferns.
Common Names
- Water clover
- F-leaf clover
- Pepperwort
- Cloven fern
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Genus: Marsilea L.
- Family: Marsileaceae (the "pepperwort family" or "water-clover family")
The genus Marsilea is named in honor of Italian naturalist Luigi Ferdinando Marsigli (1656–1730).
Distribution and Habitat
Marsilea species have a wide global distribution. Specific locations mentioned include:
- USA (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas)
- Mexico (including Aguascalientes, Baja California Sur, Chihuahua, Chiapas, Distrito Federal, Durango, Guanajuato)
- The Chihuahuan Desert
- Southeastern Arizona
- West Texas
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
Marsilea species are described as small plants. Marsilea minuta spreads by sprouting runners.
Ecological Role
Some Marsilea ferns (water clover) are potentially invasive aquatics.
Species Examples
- Marsilea ancylopoda A. Braun - Tropical Waterclover
- Marsilea minuta - Dwarf Waterclover
- Marsilea mollis B.L. Rob. & Fernald - Chihuahuan Waterclover
- Marsilea oligospora Goodding - Pacific Water Clover
- Marsilea quadrifolia L. - European Waterclover
- Marsilea vestita - Hairy Water Clover
Considerations for Pets
- Some sources mention a Rat Terrior/Chihuahua dog interacting with water clover.