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Marsilea Quadrifolia
Marsilea quadrifolia
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Marsileaceae
📍 Europe, Asia
The four-leaf clover aquatic fern produces charming four-lobed leaves that resemble tiny clover on short stalks. It can be grown as a compact foreground carpet in high-light CO2 tanks, or left to grow taller as a decorative mid-ground plant in low-tech setups. A unique texture plant that adds whimsy to any scape.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae grazers that won't uproot or damage delicate fern fronds
Gentle invertebrates that help control algae without harming plant tissue
Complementary foreground plant with similar low-tech care requirements
Small, peaceful fish that won't disturb substrate or uproot plants
Hardy companion plant with similar water parameter tolerance and low-tech adaptability
Excellent algae control without damaging plant leaves or rhizomes
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, leaf holes or transparent patches
Increase fertilizer dosing with all-in-one liquid fertilizers; test water parameters and adjust macronutrient and micronutrient levels accordingly
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green or brown algae coating fronds, reduced light penetration to plant tissue
Increase water circulation, reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours daily, manually remove algae, introduce algae-eating fish or shrimp
Root Rot
Blackened or mushy rhizomes, foul odor from substrate, plant collapse
Improve substrate drainage and water circulation; reduce organic waste accumulation; consider replanting in fresh substrate if severely affected
Melting
Rapid leaf dissolution, transparent or mushy fronds, plant deterioration
Ensure stable water parameters (pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 15-26°C); increase water changes; reduce stress from sudden environmental changes
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Optional
- light
- Low–High
- placement
- Foreground–Midground
- tank size
- 10 gallons minimum
- growth rate
- Moderate
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.5
- hardness
- 2–15 dGH
- temperature
- 59–79°F (15–26°C)