European waterclover (Marsilea quadrifolia)
Common Names: European water-clover
Description: Available as a water garden and aquarium plant.
Habit: Aquatic; rooted fern that grows at depths of up to 30 cm (1 ft); forms monotypic stands. Roots at and between the nodes.
Leaves: On long petioles, resemble those of a four-leaf clover, may be floating or emergent.
Stems: Thin; green in color.
Flowers: Non-flowering.
Fruit and seeds: No fruits or seeds.
Habitat: Native to Europe. Found in still or slow-moving waters in ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, ditches.
Reproduction: Vegetatively and by its sporocarps which may be dispersed by waterfowl and other animals.
Similar species: Dwarf waterclover (
Marsilea minuta) and Rough waterclover (
Marsilea hirsuta).
Monitoring and rapid response: Clearing off boats and other water-related equipment will help prevent spreading.
Credits: The
Michigan Natural Features Inventory (MNFI) has partnered with MISIN to provide the information in this fact sheet. Species images and/or information were used with permission from "
A Field Identification Guide to Invasive Plants in Michigan's Natural Communities" and "
A Field Guide to Invasive Plants of Aquatic and Wetland Habitats for Michigan.
Common Name: | European waterclover |
Scientific Name: | Marsilea quadrifolia |
Family: | Marsileaceae (Water clover) |
Duration: |
Perennial |
Habit: | Aquatics |
USDA Symbol: | MAQU |