Common Duckweed (Lemna minor) is a small, free-floating aquatic plant found in still or slow-moving freshwater bodies. It is characterized by its simple, oval-shaped fronds that float on the water's surface, often forming dense mats. In agroecology and regenerative agriculture, duckweed plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and water purification. It is particularly effective in removing excess nitrogen and phosphorus from water, thus preventing eutrophication. Duckweed can be integrated into aquaculture systems to enhance water quality and provide a sustainable, high-protein feed for fish and livestock. Historically, it has been used in traditional farming systems in Asia as a natural fertilizer and livestock feed. In a food forest, duckweed can serve as a ground cover in aquatic layers, supporting biodiversity and providing habitat for aquatic organisms.
Growing Details
Duckweed thrives in nutrient-rich, still or slow-moving water bodies. It propagates rapidly through vegetative reproduction, making it easy to cultivate. Regular harvesting is essential to prevent overcrowding and maintain water quality. For optimal growth, ensure the water is rich in nutrients but free from pollutants. Duckweed can be grown alongside aquatic plants like water hyacinth to enhance biodiversity. Avoid common mistakes such as allowing the water to become stagnant or overly polluted
Edible Parts
Leaves
Tags
Carbon Farming Attracts Wildlife Erosion Preventing Invasive Easy Propagating High Protein
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Lemna minor</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to temperate and tropical regions worl
applicable geo region: Global
language used: en
Flowering:
?
Harvest:
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Seed Start:
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Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(4/5)
edible uses: Duckweed can be consumed as a vegetable, often used in soups or salads. It is rich in protein and essential amino acids, making it a nutritious food source. The leaves are the edible part and should be harvested from clean, uncontaminated water sources. It can be dried and ground into a powder for use in various dishes.
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, duckweed has been used in herbal medicine to treat skin disorders and inflammation. It is believed to have cooling and detoxifying properties. Duckweed extracts are sometimes used in topical applications for their soothing effects.
health concerns: Ensure duckweed is harvested from clean water sources to avoid contamination with pollutants or pathogens. It is crucial to avoid areas with industrial runoff or untreated wastewater.
other uses: Duckweed can be used as a natural fertilizer or mulch due to its high nutrient content. It is also utilized in wastewater treatment systems for its ability to absorb pollutants, making it an effective tool for bioremediation.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Lemna minor
common names: Duckweed; Lesser Duckweed; Water Lentil
family: Araceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Lemna
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.0 m
spacing: 0.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 6ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Medium
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(6/10)
first harvest: 0 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 0.01 m
max width: 0.1 m
soil preference:
Poor Soil
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Duckweed thrives in nutrient-rich, still or slow-moving water bodies. It propagates rapidly through vegetative reproduction, making it easy to cultivate. Regular harvesting is essential to prevent overcrowding and maintain water quality. For optimal growth, ensure the water is rich in nutrients but free from pollutants. Duckweed can be grown alongside aquatic plants like water hyacinth to enhance biodiversity. Avoid common mistakes such as allowing the water to become stagnant or overly polluted
Potential Disturbances: Duckweed is generally pest-resistant but can be consumed by waterfowl and fish. To manage these naturally, consider using netting to protect duckweed in small-scale systems. Encourage the presence of aquatic insects that do not harm duckweed but contribute to the ecosystem's balance.
Growth Timeline
Recipes Using This Plant
Animals Interacting With This Plant
Permanent Link
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