Dwarf Water Lettuce
Pistia stratiotes 'Dwarf'
Also known as Mini Water Lettuce, Small Water Lettuce
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Alismatales›Araceae
📍 Tropical Africa
Miniature form of Water Lettuce with rosettes under 2 inches. Long trailing roots. Better for smaller tanks than the full-sized version.
Community Photos
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by @kyleesandow
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Tanks keeping this 🌿
Growing in 4 tanksCommunity tanks featuring Dwarf Water Lettuce.
Compatible Livestock
Shrimp won't damage the plant and benefit from root surfaces for grazing and shelter
Small peaceful fish that won't uproot the plant and help control algae on leaves
Peaceful schooling fish that appreciate the shade and shelter provided by floating plants
Large shrimp that won't damage the plant and will help maintain the tank ecosystem
Companion plant that creates a lush planted environment with similar low-light tolerance
Peaceful fish that benefit from the cover and won't uproot or consume the plant
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, holes in leaves
Add comprehensive liquid fertilizer containing macronutrients and micronutrients; perform regular water changes; consider CO2 supplementation if growth remains poor
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green or brown algae coating the plant surface, reduced light penetration to leaves
Manually remove algae with soft brush; reduce lighting duration to 8-10 hours daily; add algae-eating fish like Otocinclus or increase water changes
Root Rot
Darkening or mushy roots, foul odor, plant detachment from crown, wilting appearance
Improve water circulation; perform 25-30% water change; remove severely affected plant material; ensure adequate dissolved oxygen through aeration
Melting
Rapid leaf dissolution, transparent or translucent leaves, plant disintegration
Acclimate plant slowly to new tank conditions; maintain stable water parameters; ensure adequate lighting and nutrients; remove dead tissue to prevent decay
Tips from the community 💡
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Quick Facts
- co2
- not required
- lighting
- medium
- placement
- floating
- difficulty
- easy
- growthRate
- fast
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.5–7.5
- hardness
- 3–15 dGH
- temperature
- 72–86°F (22–30°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.