Common salvinia (Salvinia minima)
Care, watering, light and tips for Common salvinia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Salviniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 7 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Common salvinia
Salvinia minima, also known as common salvinia or watermoss, is a small, free-floating aquatic fern with bright green, elliptical leaves that form dense mats on the water surface. It is ideal for freshwater aquariums and ponds, where it helps control algae and provides shelter for small fish and fry.
Native range
Tropical and subtropical Americas, from the southeastern United States to South America
Care tips
It requires bright to medium light, but tolerates partial shade. No substrate is needed as it floats freely on the water surface. It's important to avoid excessive nutrients in the water, as this can lead to uncontrolled growth and suffocate other plants. It reproduces rapidly, so regular removal of excess may be necessary to maintain balance.
How to save a dying Common salvinia
- Warning signs
- Yellowish or whitish leaves, dry and crispy edges, stunted growth or frond disappearance.
- First aid
- Remove dead fronds. Check water nutrients and ensure no algae.
- What kills it
- Lack of essential nutrients (especially iron and nitrogen) or excessive algae competition.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly. A partial water change and liquid fertilization can revive it.