Also known as Duckmeat · Duckweed · Minute Duckweed
Lesser Duckweed (Lemna aequinoctialis) is a tiny, free-floating aquatic plant forming dense mats on the surface of still or slow-moving freshwater bodies.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright
75% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light; can tolerate full sun if water is adequately supplied.
Essential
75% intensity
Floats on the surface of stagnant or slow-moving freshwater.
None
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C, but can tolerate a wider range.
Aquatic
50% intensity
Low
25% intensity
Absorbs nutrients from water; benefits from dilute liquid fertilizer in nutrient-poor conditions.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Lesser duckweed thrives in stagnant or slow-moving freshwater environments. It floats on the surface and absorbs nutrients directly from the water. Ensure the water is consistently present and avoid letting it dry out.
For aquariums or ponds, maintain a stable water level.
Pruning is primarily about managing its rapid growth. If duckweed covers the entire water surface, remove excess fronds to prevent oxygen depletion for submerged plants and fish.
This can be done by scooping out portions with a net or fine mesh. Regular thinning is key.
Lemna aequinoctialis propagates asexually through budding. Each frond develops daughter fronds, which detach and form new plants. This process is incredibly fast, especially in optimal conditions.
Simply ensure there are healthy parent plants in suitable water.
Repotting is not applicable as Lemna aequinoctialis is an aquatic plant that floats freely on the water's surface. It does not grow in soil or require a container.
Its "habitat" is the water body itself, where it can spread as needed.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lesser Duckweed (Lemna aequinoctialis)
Where Lesser Duckweed (Lemna aequinoctialis) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Alismatales |
| Family | Araceae |
| Genus | Lemna |
| Species | Lemna aequinoctialis |
Similar in genus Lemna
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
