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Wolffia arrhiza (L.) Horkel ex Wimm

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Wolffia arrhiza (L.) Horkel ex Wimm
  • Common Name: Rootless Duckweed, Watermeal

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Freshwater bodies across multiple continents
  • Features: One of the smallest flowering plants; free-floating with no true stems or roots

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Wolffia
  • Botanical Background: It has long intrigued botanists due to its reduced morphology. Early naturalists and modern taxonomists alike have studied its reproductive strategies and classification within aquatic flora.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Native to temperate and tropical regions, Wolffia arrhiza is found in still or slow-moving freshwater bodies in Europe, Asia, and North America.
  • Environment: Thrives in nutrient-rich, calm waters with stable temperatures. Ideal conditions include moderate water flow, ample moisture, and environments that support high humidity.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Tiny, oval to circular leaf-like structures floating on the water surface

  • Simple, uniform texture and green coloration

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Very inconspicuous flower; lacks a noticeable spathe

  • Flowering is rare; reproduction primarily through self-pollination

Growth Habit

  • Aquatic and free-floating with no true root system

  • Nutrients absorbed directly from the water; reproduces mainly via budding

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Thrives in bright, indirect sunlight
  • Can tolerate partial direct exposure if not intense

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires constant immersion in clean water

  • High humidity is naturally maintained in aquatic environments

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Not applicable; grown in aquatic setups like small ponds or water gardens

  • Does not require traditional soil media

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Prefers temperate to warm water conditions

  • Minimal fertilization needed if water is nutrient-rich

Propagation Methods

Division

  • Propagates primarily through vegetative budding

  • New plantlets form and detach from the parent plant automatically

Stem Cuttings (if applicable)

  • Not applicable; lacks true stems and roots

Seeds

  • Flowering and seed formation are extremely rare

  • Asexual propagation is far more efficient and typical for this species

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Susceptible to water molds and algae overgrowth

  • Poor water quality can lead to decline in plant health

Treatment Recommendations

  • Maintain clean water with gentle circulation or filtration

  • Avoid harsh chemical treatments to preserve delicate aquatic ecosystems

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Recognized as one of the smallest flowering plants on Earth

  • Studied for its high protein content and potential in water purification systems

  • Valued by enthusiasts for its minimalist form and ecological function

  • Popular in scientific research and educational aquatic displays

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • Generally abundant in freshwater habitats

  • Not currently considered endangered

Market Availability

  • Widely accessible through research institutions and aquatic plant collections

  • Easily propagated, making it available to both hobbyists and scientists

References & Resources

Further Reading

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