Status:
valid
Authors:
R.Br.
Source:
tro
Year:
1810
Citation Micro:
Prodr. Fl. Nov. Holland. 167. 1810. Bak. Hdb. 138. NPf (1810)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0001107239
Common Names
- Pinnata Azolla
- Fairy Moss
- Mosquito Fern
Description
Azolla pinnata (also called Mosquito Fern, among many other common names) is a floating aquatic fern native to tropical and temperate regions. It is typically found in ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams. It has small, light green fronds with a distinctive pinnate shape.
Uses & Benefits
Azolla pinnata is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. It is also used as a biofertilizer and for water purification.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Azolla pinnata sub. africana (Desv.) R.M.K.Saunders & K.Fowler
Azolla pinnata var. pinnata
Azolla pinnata sub. asiatica R.M.K.Saunders & K.Fowler
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Azolla pinnata has small, green flowers with four petals and yellow anthers. The seeds are small, brown and oblong in shape. The seedlings are small and delicate with long, thin stems and small, oval-shaped leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Azolla pinnata is a hardy, aquatic fern that is easy to propagate and cultivate. It prefers shallow water in full sun and can tolerate partial shade. Propagation is best done by division of the rhizomes in early spring or by spore sowing in late summer. It is also possible to propagate from cuttings of the fronds.
Where to Find Azolla pinnata
Azolla pinnata is native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world.
Species in the Azolla genus
Species in the Salviniaceae family
Azolla pinnata,
Azolla caroliniana,
Azolla filiculoides,
Azolla microphylla,
Azolla rubra,
Azolla nilotica,
Salvinia martynii,
Salvinia hastata,
Salvinia auriculata,
Salvinia minima,
Salvinia molesta,
Salvinia nymphellula,
Salvinia natans,
Salvinia sprucei,
Salvinia biloba,
Salvinia oblongifolia,