Giant salvinia (Salvinia biloba)
Care, watering, light and tips for Giant salvinia on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Salviniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 1 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Giant salvinia
Salvinia biloba, commonly known as giant salvinia, is a free-floating aquatic fern native to South America. It is characterized by its oval, hairy leaves that float on the water's surface, forming dense green mats. It is ideal for ponds, aquariums, and stagnant water bodies, where it can provide shelter and shade for aquatic wildlife.
Native range
South America, especially southeastern Brazil
Care tips
It requires direct to partial sunlight for optimal growth and warm temperatures, avoiding frost. No substrate is needed as it floats freely on the water, but it prefers calm, nutrient-rich waters. Its growth can be extremely rapid, so it is crucial to control its spread to prevent it from becoming an invasive species, regularly removing excess biomass. A common mistake is not managing its growth, which can suffocate other aquatic plants and reduce oxygen in the water.
How to save a dying Giant salvinia
- Warning signs
- Leaves shrinking, yellowing, or turning brown. Growth stops or becomes slow.
- First aid
- Ensure clean, nutrient-rich water. Remove decaying organic matter. Provide bright, indirect light.
- What kills it
- Stagnant, dirty, or nutrient-poor water. Excessive direct sun or deep shade. High salinity.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and green sections remain. Act quickly.