Species Overview

The genus Marsilea is comprised of 65 species of aquatic ferns. The common name of water clover refers to their appearance which is more clover like than fernlike. According to the Atlas of Florida Plants there are 6 species present in Florida, one of which, Marsilea ancylopoda, is native and state-threatened and 5 which are non-native. The non-native species were likely introduced via the aquarium trade.

The non-native species include:

• Marsilea hirsuta
• Marsilea macropoda
• Marsilea minuta
• Marsilea mutica
• Marsilea vestita

Species Characteristics

Family: Marsileaceae

Habit: Aquatic fern

Leaves: Long-stalked leaves have four clover-like lobes and are either present above water or submerged.

Distribution in Florida: Scattered from the panhandle to central and south Florida.

Impacts

There is little information available on impacts although M. minuta has been reported as a pest in rice production South-East Asia and Australia. Consult your local UF IFAS Extension Office for management recommendations.