Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes) - Image 2

Water Lettuce (Pistia stratiotes)

Price range: $3.99 through $24.99

Water Lettuce is one of the most popular floating pond plants in the world! Prized for its soft velvety foliage and long feathery root systems, their pale-green rosettes float like miniature heads of lettuce on the water. Each plant, provides valuable cover for fish, shrimp, tadpoles, and fry. This fast-growing tropical plant is ideal for ponds, patio water gardens, and calm aquariums. Functioning as a natural filtration system, it helps absorb excess nutrients directly from the water and shades the surface. Water Lettuce thrives in full sun to partial shade and spreads quickly during the warm growing season. This aquatic floater should be thinned regularly so it does not completely cover the pond.

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SKU: N/A Categories: Aquarium Plants, Floating, Pond Plants, Uncategorized Tags: biofilter, floating plant, Pistia stratiotes, water lettuce

Description

Plant Information

Native Range: Likely tropical Africa, now naturalized throughout much of the tropical and subtropical world.

Plant Type: Floating Aquatic

USDA Zones: 9–11 (grown as an annual elsewhere)

Sun: Full sun to part shade

Water: Free floating in calm freshwater

Growth Rate: Fast

Size: 4–10 in (10–25 cm) rosettes

Propagation: Stolons (runners)

Ecology & History

Water Lettuce grows naturally in ponds, marshes, and slow-moving waterways. Its dense root systems absorb excess nutrients, helping improve water quality while creating valuable habitat for juvenile fish and aquatic invertebrates. Although its exact origin is debated, most botanists believe it is native to tropical Africa.

Because it spreads rapidly in warm climates, it is regulated as an invasive species in some regions. Water Lettuce thrives in full sun to partial shade. Always check local regulations before purchasing or releasing it outdoors.

Additional Information

Excellent natural biofilter
Provides shade that helps reduce algae
Great spawning cover for fish
Not considered edible
Safe for ponds and water gardens
May be restricted in some states

Additional information

Size	Small, Medium, Large, Bundle of 5

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