Source: Wikimedia Commons
Marsilea Hirsuta
BeginnerMarsilea hirsuta
A foreground plant with four-leaf clover shaped leaves. Mysteriously becomes single leaf underwater.
About
Marsilea hirsuta is a small aquatic plant in the family Marsileaceae (a fern relative), native to Australia. The emersed leaves closely resemble four-leaf clovers, but the submerged form exhibits an intriguing dimorphism where leaves reduce to approximately one to two leaflets depending on conditions. Its very slow growth rate makes it easy to maintain its shape long-term as a foreground carpet plant. Popular as an easy-to-handle foreground plant for beginners due to its hardiness—growing without CO2 in low to medium light conditions. It spreads by runners at a gentle pace, eliminating the need for frequent trimming. Shallow root growth makes it compatible with both soil and sandy substrates. The charming four-leaf clover appearance brings a natural, whimsical quality to aquarium settings.
Basic Info
Origin
Australia
Lifespan
Perennial
Size
2-5cm
Temperature
18〜28℃
Watering & Fertilizer
None
Growing Tips
Lighting
Grows in medium light
CO2
Grows without CO2
Growth
Spreads carpet-like by runners
Notes
Emersed four-leaf, submerged single-leaf
Marsilea Hirsuta FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Marsilea Hirsuta?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Marsilea Hirsuta?
The ideal temperature for Marsilea Hirsuta is 18〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Marsilea Hirsuta?
The average lifespan of Marsilea Hirsuta is Perennial. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Marsilea Hirsuta get?
The mature size of Marsilea Hirsuta is 2-5cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Marsilea Hirsuta?
Marsilea Hirsuta: watering & fertilizer — None. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Marsilea Hirsuta?
The price of Marsilea Hirsuta varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Sources: 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧(外来生物法) / CITES Appendix II 植物掲載分類群(科・属レベル)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Beginner-Friendly Aquatic Plants Without CO2 Supplementation | Cultivation Conditions and Tank Layout Strategies
You can create a beautiful aquarium without expensive CO2 equipment. This guide explains practical methods for selecting CO2-free aquatic plants that beginners can successfully grow, from cultivation conditions to tank layout strategies.
How to Cultivate Rotala and Bring Out Beautiful Red Color | Lighting, CO2, and Trimming Techniques to Achieve Vibrant Red
This guide explains the Rotala genus, popular in aquatic plant layouts, covering light intensity, CO2, and fertilizer management to bring out red coloration, as well as trimming techniques for maintaining beautiful, dense growth.
Rare Rhizophytic Aquatic Plants Beyond Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss | The Appeal of Distinctive Varieties Such as Bolbitis
Beyond the standard rhizophytic aquatic plants Anubias, Bucephalandra, and Willow Moss, there are distinctive rhizophytic species such as Bolbitis. This article explores their appeal, cultivation tips, and how to incorporate them into your layout.
Tissue Culture Aquatic Plants vs. Standard Aquatic Plants: Pesticide Risk Comparison | Safe Aquatic Plant Selection for Shrimp Tanks
Comprehensive comparison of pesticide residue risks between tissue culture aquatic plants (TC plants) and standard aquatic plants. We explain why tissue culture plants are safe, the time required for pesticide removal in standard plants, and how to choose aquatic plants by category (foreground, midground, background) considering pesticide risks from a shrimp tank perspective.