Lemna minor L.

• Genus: Lemna
• Botanical Background: Described by Carl Linnaeus. It continues to intrigue botanists with its streamlined structure and rapid reproduction.

• Geographical Range: Native to Europe, Asia, and North America
• Environment: Thrives on the surfaces of still or slow-moving water bodies such as ponds, lakes, and ditches. It prefers nutrient-rich waters and moderate temperatures.

Leaves

• Small, oval leaves that form a flat, green mat
• Simple in structure, with a smooth texture and uniform coloration

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

• Occasionally produces tiny, inconspicuous flowers with minimal structure

Growth Habit

• Aquatic plant that floats freely on water surfaces
• Reproduces mainly by budding from a stolon rather than through a well-developed rhizome

Light Requirements

• Bright, indirect light, though it can tolerate partial shade

Watering & Humidity

• Requires constant access to water with stable moisture levels

Soil & Potting Mix

• Does not require soil
• Typically cultivated in containers filled with freshwater

Temperature & Fertilizer

• Ideal temperatures range from 15 to 30 °C
• Moderate nutrient supplementation can enhance growth

Division and Cuttings

• Propagation occurs naturally through vegetative budding
• Division of the floating mats is the most common method

Seeds

• Seed production is rare and less effective, it is possible under certain conditions

Typical Issues

• Small aquatic insects or algae overgrowth

Treatment Recommendations

• Maintaining clean water and avoiding over-fertilization
• Organic methods are generally preferred for treatment

• Valued for its role in water purification and as a food source for aquatic wildlife
• Used in research on plant physiology and environmental monitoring

• Rapid growth and ability to form dense mats

Wild Population Status

• Abundant in its natural habitats and is not considered threatened

Market Availability

• Widely available through aquatic plant suppliers
• Commonly used in both research and decorative water features