Spirodela polyrhiza: Giant Duckweed

Spirodela polyrhiza, the Giant Duckweed or Common Duckmeat, is a tiny, free-floating aquatic plant. It consists of small, round to oval, flattened fronds (thalli) about 2-10 mm across, with several roots hanging beneath. The upper surface is green, the lower often purplish. It forms dense mats on still water. It is the largest of the duckweeds (Lemnaceae).

Plant Profile

Giant Duckweed grows on the surface of nutrient-rich, still or slow-moving freshwater. It reproduces rapidly by budding, forming complete coverage. It provides food and shelter for aquatic life, removes excess nutrients, but can become a nuisance. It is used in wastewater treatment and as animal feed. In water gardens, it can be managed by scooping. A fascinating miniature aquatic plant.