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European waterclover

Scientific Name: Marsilea quadrifolia

Family: Marsileaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

European Water Clover (Marsilea quadrifolia)

European water clover, also known as water shamrock or f-leaf clover, is an aquatic fern that can add unique texture to water gardens and shallow ponds. It's important to be aware of its invasive potential in certain regions.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant grows from creeping horizontal stems, potentially creating a dense mat that could be a concern for smaller aquatic pets.

Considerations for Children

  • The plant produces basal leaves divided into four leaflets, resembling clover.

Common Names

  • European Water Clover
  • Water Shamrock
  • F-Leaf Clover
  • Sushni (parts of India)
  • Aalaik Keerai (Tamil)
  • Sunusunia (Odia)
  • Water Clover

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Marsilea quadrifolia L.
  • Family: Marsileaceae
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: European Waterclover
  • Note: The text also mentions Marsilea mutica (Australian Water Clover) but it is not considered a synonym of M. quadrifolia.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Europe and Asia.
  • Found in shallow ponds, lakes, swamps, wetlands, and coasts of rivers and streams.
  • First detected in Connecticut in the USA.
  • Observed naturalized in Vermilion Co. IL, USA.

Ecological Role

  • Classified as an invasive species in some regions, including the Midwest of the USA and Michigan.
  • Its ability to spread and adapt to different light conditions contributes to its invasive potential.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Aquatic fern that grows from creeping horizontal stems.
  • Produces basal leaves that are quadrifoliate (divided into 4 leaflets) located at the apices of slender petioles.
  • Grows to approximately 0.2 meters (0ft 8in) in height.
  • Aquatic submerged perennial plant.

Growing Conditions

  • Hardy to zone (UK) 5.
  • Suitable for light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils.
  • Prefers acidic soil pH.
  • Adapts to both low and high light conditions.

Further Information

  • USDA PLANTS Symbol: MAQU
  • USDA ARS GRIN: 404866
  • Invasive Plant Atlas of New England - University of Connecticut
  • Bugwood Selected Sets
  • Dave's Garden