Water clover Marsilea quadrifolia
ABOUT
The plant known as water clover resembles a four-leaf clover. It has leaves divided into four leaflets, which are mostly arranged in a clover-like pattern. The leaflets are oblong or wedge-shaped and feature a smooth, shiny surface, often with a slightly ruffled or wavy edge. The coloration of the leaves is generally a vibrant green, contributing to its lush appearance. In some conditions, the edges of the leaves may have a hint of reddish or brownish coloration. Water clover has a slender, creeping rhizome that allows it to spread across the substrate in its aquatic or semi-aquatic environment. From these rhizomes emerge both the leaves and the thin, hair-like roots that anchor the plant into the soil or mud. Occasionally, small flowers may be seen, usually held just above the water or at the surface, consisting of small, inconspicuous structures that are typically pale green or brown. This plant often forms dense mats over the water's surface or in wet areas, presenting a unique and attractive coverage that is frequently used in water gardens and ponds. It relies on both sexual and asexual reproduction means to propagate, with its spore cases typically located on the underside of the leaves, though these may not be obvious without close inspection. Overall, water clover's appearance is quite distinctive and easily identifiable due to its clover-like leaves and aquatic growing nature.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Marsileaceae.
Synonyms
European Waterclover, Water Shamrock, Four-leaf Clover Fern, Marsilea.
Common names
Marsilea asia-minor, Marsilea batardae, Marsilea bonariensis, Marsilea brownii, Marsilea devians, Marsilea diffusa, Marsilea elegans, Marsilea fadeniana, Marsilea falcata, Marsilea hirsuta, Marsilea macropoda, Marsilea minuta, Marsilea mollis, Marsilea mutica, Marsilea oligophylla, Marsilea polycarpa, Marsilea preslii, Marsilea pubescens, Marsilea quadrifoliata, Marsilea rotundifolia, Marsilea schelpeana, Marsilea strigosa, Marsilea tenuifolia, Marsilea uncinata, Marsilea vestita, Marsilia quadrifolia.
ToxicityTo humans
Marsilea quadrifolia, commonly known as water clover, is not typically considered toxic to humans. There are no significant reports of toxicity or poisoning from the ingestion of water clover. As with any plant, individual sensitivities can vary, and it is generally recommended to exercise caution and avoid ingesting plants that are not known to be safe or are not intended for human consumption.
To pets
Marsilea quadrifolia, commonly referred to as water clover, is not known to be toxic to pets. No widespread reports suggest that pets, including cats and dogs, experience adverse effects from ingesting water clover. However, it is always prudent to monitor pets around plants and discourage them from eating ornamental vegetation, as individual animals might have unique sensitivities or allergies.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Semi-deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Height
0 feet 6 inches (15 cm)
Spread
1 foot (30 cm)
Plant type
Herb
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
Eurasia
Benefits
General Benefits- Edible - The leaves and rhizomes of Marsilea quadrifolia, commonly known as water clover, are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked, serving as a nutritious food source.
- Ornamental Value - With its attractive four-leaf clover-like fronds, water clover is used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of ponds, aquariums, and water gardens.
- Low Maintenance - Water clover is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal maintenance, making it suitable for novice gardeners or those with limited time.
- Oxygenation - By growing in water bodies, water clover contributes to the oxygenation of the water, which is beneficial for aquatic ecosystems and helps support fish and other aquatic organisms.
- Erosion Control - The root system of water clover can help stabilize pond banks and prevent soil erosion in wetland environments.
- Shade and Shelter - The dense fronds of water clover provide shade and shelter for aquatic wildlife, such as fish and amphibians, enhancing biodiversity.
- Traditional Cuisine - Water clover is used in some traditional cuisines, offering unique flavors and contributing to cultural culinary practices.
- Drought Resistance - Water clover has the ability to survive periods of drought by forming hardened tubers, which allows it to endure adverse weather conditions.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant: Marsilea quadrifolia contains compounds that may exhibit antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from damage by free radicals.
- Antidiabetic: Some research suggests that the plant has potential antidiabetic effects and may help in managing blood sugar levels.
- Nootropic: There is some evidence that Marsilea quadrifolia may improve cognitive functions and act as a brain tonic.
- Anxiolytic: The plant has been traditionally used to alleviate anxiety and stress.
- Anti-inflammatory: Marsilea quadrifolia may possess anti-inflammatory properties that could help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Hepatoprotective: The plant might provide some protection to the liver from certain types of damage.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Marsilea quadrifolia, commonly known as water clover, can be used as an ornamental plant in water gardens and aquariums, adding aesthetic value to aquatic landscapes with its clover-like foliage.
- The plant serves as a food source for waterfowl and other aquatic animals, offering nutritional sustenance in wetland ecosystems.
- Water clover is employed in phytoremediation efforts to remove pollutants from water bodies, helping to maintain cleaner ponds and streams.
- In aquascaping, water clover is utilized to create natural-looking underwater landscapes reminiscent of a clover field.
- Fish farmers sometimes use water clover as a shade provider in fishponds, which helps to reduce algae growth and maintain cooler water temperatures.
- Water clover can act as a biological indicator of water quality, with its presence and health reflecting the condition of its aquatic environment.
- The plant's dense growth habit provides shelter and breeding grounds for aquatic invertebrates, supporting biodiversity in wetlands.
- Educational use in teaching botany or aquatic biology is another unusual application, as water clover has unique reproductive structures that illustrate fern reproduction.
- Culinary artisans may use the aesthetically pleasing leaves of water clover as a natural garnish to decorate dishes, despite its non-edibility.
- Water clover sometimes features in the creation of living jewelry or botanical art, where the leaves are encapsulated or displayed for their beauty.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe plant Marsilea quadrifolia, commonly known as water clover, is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe plant water clover is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Luck: Commonly known as 'four-leaf clover', Marsilea quadrifolia is often associated with good luck due to the rarity of the four-leaved version compared to the more common three-leaved clover.
- Prosperity: Its resemblance to the lucky four-leaf clover also makes it a symbol of prosperity and fortune.
- Balance: The four symmetric leaflets can represent balance and symmetry in life, embodying the idea of harmonious living and stability.
- Magical powers: In some cultures, it is believed that the four-leaf clover has the power to ward off evil and is used in various magical rituals.
WaterThe Water Clover should be watered regularly to maintain a consistently moist environment, especially since this plant is commonly found in aquatic or semi-aquatic conditions. It is best to water it once or twice a week, but this can vary based on the humidity and heat levels. Typically, you would aim to add about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week to keep the soil nicely saturated without being waterlogged. Ensure that the Water Clover is not left to dry out completely, and adjust watering frequency during hotter months or periods of extended drought.
LightWater Clover thrives in bright, indirect light but can also adapt to partial shade. It does not tolerate direct, harsh sunlight well, so it's best to place it in a spot where it will receive filtered light. An ideal location would be near a window that is either north or east-facing to avoid the intense afternoon sun.
TemperatureWater Clover prefers moderate temperatures, ideally between 60°F to 75°F. It can survive in temperatures as low as 50°F and as high as 86°F but should be protected from extremes. Avoid placing the plant in areas with drastic temperature changes or cold drafts to maintain its health.
PruningPruning Water Clover is generally done to remove any dead or yellowing leaves and to maintain its shape. This can be carried out as needed throughout the growing season. The best time for substantial pruning is in the spring before new growth begins, but always ensure to use clean, sharp scissors or shears to make precise cuts.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe best soil mix for Water Clover (Marsilea quadrifolia) is a rich, loamy and sandy soil with good drainage, keeping a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
RepottingWater Clover should be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and allow for continued growth.
Humidity & MistingWater Clover thrives in high humidity conditions, ideally between 60% to 80%.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Place Water Clover in bright indirect light, high humidity.
Outdoor
Partial sun to shade, moist soil, can grow in shallow water.
Hardiness zone
5-11 USDA
Life cycleMarsilea quadrifolia, commonly known as water clover or four-leaf clover, begins its life cycle as a spore released from the parent plant into a moist environment. The spore germinates to produce a small, heart-shaped prothallus, which is the gametophyte stage of the plant, bearing both male and female reproductive organs. Upon fertilization, the prothallus gives rise to a sporophyte, which is the plant's familiar fern-like form. The sporophyte grows rhizomes, horizontal stems that spread out under the water or soil and sprout new vertical fronds with characteristic clover-like leaflets. Photosynthesis occurs in the green leaflets, which float on or rise above the water's surface, enabling growth and energy storage. Over time, special reproductive structures called sporocarps form on the underside of the fronds, which later release spores upon maturity, thus continuing the life cycle.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method of propagation for the Marsilea quadrifolia, commonly known as water clover or four-leaf clover fern, is by division. This is typically done in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. To propagate by division, a mature water clover is carefully taken out of the water or potting medium. Its rhizomes, which are horizontal stems running typically just below the surface and often give rise to roots and shoots, are gently separated into smaller sections, making sure that each new section has at least one frond. These sections are then planted in a muddy substrate or a water containing pot, where they quickly take root and begin to grow. This method is favored due to its simplicity and high success rate, making it easy for gardeners to expand their collection of water clover or share with others.