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Plant Freshwater Care: easy

Giant Duckweed

Spirodela polyrhiza
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Other names: Spirodela polyrhiza, Greater duckweed
Group: Floating plants · Family: Araceae · Origin: Worldwide — still waters of temperate and tropical regions

The larger relative of duckweed: its round leaves, 5–10 mm across, are purple underneath, and several roots hang from each one. It multiplies fast and must be kept under control in the aquarium.

Last updated October 16, 2026

Temperature
10–28°C
pH
6–8
Hardness
2–20 dGH
Light
Medium
CO₂
Not needed
Growth
Fast
Placement
Floating

Water parameters

Temperature10–28°C
pH6–8
General hardness (GH)2–20 dGH
Recommended range

Overview

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

Giant duckweed is a floating plant that resembles common duckweed (Lemna minor) but is noticeably larger. Its round, flat, leaf-like bodies are 5–10 mm across; they are glossy green on top and purple-red underneath. Unlike Lemna, not one but a bunch of fine roots hangs from each plant.

Planting and Placement

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit

It is not planted; it is placed on the surface. It can be kept in a particular area with a floating ring.

Care and Fertilization

October 16, 2026 · Suggest an edit
  • Light: Moderate.
  • CO₂: Not required.
  • Control: Although not as fast as duckweed, it multiplies quickly and can cover the surface; remove the excess with a net once a week.
  • It is eaten by plant-eating fish and goldfish. Do not throw the excess into natural waters or down the sink; put it in the trash.

Propagation

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Common Problems

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Hobbyist notes

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Things you won't find in books, learned by trial and error. The most helpful ones are on top.

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Change history and contributors
  1. Page created · October 16, 2026