Pistia stratiotes
Alternate Names:
Dwarf Water Lettuce
Pistia stratiotes is a classic, adaptable plant that’s easy to fit into many setups, offering reliable growth and a clean, natural look. It adapts well with or without CO₂.
Care At-A-Glance
Difficulty: Very Easy
Type: Floating rosette plant
Size: Usually smaller than 5cm (2") in diameter in the aquarium - can grow up to 30cm in ponds
Position and Usage: Floating plant that cleans your water. Suitable for aquariums and ponds. Suspended root network can be substantial and provide a nice, shaded refuge for small fish and shrimp
CO2 Requirements: Not required Special requirements: Loves nitrate rich water - great for cleaning water column with high bioload. Water column fertilization can be very important
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Lighting: 2/5 – 5/5
Water Conditions: 15 – 30°C; pH of 6.0 – 8.4; Hardness unimportant
Propagation/Reproduction: New plantlets form through "runners". Sexual reproduction through seeds can be done. Emersed growth: Does not grow emersed - needs to be floating on water. Can be used in Vivariums and Paludariums where there is some water. INVASIVE SPECIES INFORMATION : Restricted in the State of Wisconsin and poses a threat to the ecosystems of our Great Lakes. While unrestricted in Canada, this plant (along with any other aquatic plant) should never ever be released into any natural waterway and excess cuttings should be disposed properly either by trading them with your local fish store for credit or by sealing them in a plastic bag and disposing in the garbage. Keep our natural freswater ecosystems healthy!
Detailed Information
Overview
Pistia stratiotes 'ABC' (Dwarf Water Lettuce, Water Lettuce, Nile Cabbage, Water Cabbage) Invasive species warning: This species is a known invasive pest in the Great Lakes region where it may be regulated or prohibited by U.S. State and Federal statutes. It is restricted in Wisconsin. If you are ordering from WI, this product will be removed from your order and the difference refunded.
Resembling a miniature rosette of fancy lettuce, Pistia stratiotes is a beautiful plant that can add something to any aquarium (or pond). It is a floating plant and is easily cultivated by anyone. It requires little more than some water column fertilization or a high bioload of fish, shrimp and inverts.
References and Further Reading