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Floating Fern
BeginnerSalvinia natans
Small oval floating leaves cover the surface. Fine hairs on leaves repel water. Fast multiplier with strong water purification. Popular for medaka and betta tanks.
About
Salvinia natans is a floating fern in the family Salviniaceae, an annual aquatic fern widely distributed across Eurasia. In Japan it is known as the native sansho-mo. It floats paired oval leaves on the surface, the upper surfaces covered with fine water-repellent hairs. What looks like roots are modified submersed leaves. Requiring no CO2 or substrate fertilizer, it multiplies vigorously on light and dissolved nutrients, helping with algae control and water purification; thin it as needed when it overgrows. Hardy and beginner-friendly, but leaves are prone to damage from strong flow or splashing, so take care. It provides shelter and spawning sites for small fish and shrimp and creates a natural surface scape. It can die back in cold water, so attention to winter temperatures is advisable.
Size of the Floating Fern
The Floating Fern grows to Leaf 1-2cm.
Temperature & humidity for the Floating Fern
The ideal temperature for the Floating Fern is 20〜30℃.
Basic Info
Origin
Eurasia (including Japan)
Size
Leaf 1-2cm
Temperature
20〜30℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Sufficient nutrients from water. No extra needed
Growing Tips
Lighting
Medium+ light. Grows well under natural sunlight
CO2 & Fertilizer
Needs neither CO2 nor substrate fertilizer. It multiplies vigorously on light and nutrients in the water, helping suppress algae and purify water.
Water Temperature & Quality
Aim for 20–30°C. It can die back in low temperatures, so pay attention to water temperature in winter.
Maintenance
Thin when overgrown. Don't block light to submerged plants
Flow
Dislikes strong current. Calm environments preferred
Floating Fern FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Floating Fern?
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 Floating Fern?
The ideal temperature for Floating Fern is 20〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QHow large does Floating Fern get?
The mature size of Floating Fern is Leaf 1-2cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Floating Fern?
Floating Fern: watering & fertilizer — Sufficient nutrients from water. No extra needed. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Floating Fern?
The price of Floating Fern varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect 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: Ministry of the Environment Designated Invasive Species List (Invasive Species Act) / CITES Appendix II listed plant taxa (family and genus level)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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