Pistia stratiotes
Scientific name: Pistia stratiotes
Family: Araceae
Usual maximum size in aquariums: 5 - 20 cm (1.97 - 7.87 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 12°N (71.43 - 214.29ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 20 - 28 °C (68 - 82.4°F)
Reproduction of the plant: Divisions
Origin (in the wild): Everywhere
How fast these plants grow: Fast
Recommended substrate: Without substrate
Demands on lighting: Bright
Ideal placement in a fish tank: Floating
Common Names
Water Cabbage, Water Lettuce
Planting Area
Pistia stratiotes is a floating plant and should never be planted in the substrate. It thrives best when allowed to float freely on the water surface.
Propagation
This plant propagates through natural division. Daughter plants will separate from the mother plant on their own, requiring no intervention from the keeper. Although Pistia stratiotes does produce flowers, they are typically hidden among the leaves and are often overlooked.
Difficulty
Easy to care for, Pistia stratiotes is well-suited for both beginners and experienced aquarists. However, it is essential to manage its growth carefully to prevent it from overwhelming the tank. In a well-maintained aquarium, this plant reaches around 5-6 cm (2-2.4 inches) in diameter. In outdoor ponds, it can grow up to 60 cm (23.6 inches) in diameter. The plant’s ease of care is offset by its potential to become invasive if not monitored, which can lead to reduced oxygen levels and light availability for other plants.
Short Description
Pistia stratiotes is often labeled as an aquatic weed due to its invasive nature. In the USA, it is known for obstructing waterways and requires regular maintenance to control its spread. In an aquarium, it is crucial to prevent it from covering the entire water surface, as this can significantly reduce gas exchange and block light from reaching submerged plants. Proper disposal of excess plants is important; always place them in a refuse bin rather than discarding them into local waterways.