European Water Clover (Marsilea quadrifolia) is an aquatic fern native to Europe and Asia, known for its distinctive four-part clover-like leaves that float on water surfaces. In agroecological systems, it serves as a valuable ground cover in wetland restoration projects, enhancing water retention and soil structure. It plays a role in the aquatic layer of food forests, providing habitat for aquatic life and contributing to biodiversity. Historically, it has been used in traditional European water gardens. Its resilience in waterlogged conditions makes it ideal for natural farming systems aiming to create diverse, resilient ecosystems. It can be paired with other aquatic plants like water lilies and cattails to create a balanced aquatic ecosystem.
Growing Details
Marsilea quadrifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires consistently wet, marshy conditions. It can be propagated by division or from spores. For optimal growth, ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and maintain a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Companion plants include water lilies and cattails, which help create a balanced aquatic ecosystem. Common mistakes include allowing the soil to dry out and overcrowding plants. Harvest leaves when they are young and tender, and st
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Marsilea quadrifolia</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 Europe and Asia
applicable geo region: Temperate regions
language used: en
Flowering:
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Harvest:
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Seed Start:
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Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(2/5)
edible uses: The leaves of the European Water Clover can be consumed as a vegetable, typically cooked. They are sometimes used in salads or as a garnish. However, they should be consumed in moderation due to potential oxalate content, which can be reduced by cooking.
Medicinal Rating:
(1/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, the plant has been used for its mild diuretic properties. However, it is not widely recognized for significant medicinal uses and should be used with caution.
health concerns: Contains oxalates, which can be reduced by cooking. Consumption should be moderate.
other uses: The plant is often used as a decorative aquatic plant in ponds and water gardens, contributing to the aesthetic and ecological balance of aquatic systems.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Marsilea quadrifolia
common names: European Water Clover; Water Shamrock; Four-l
family: Marsileaceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Marsilea
Growing Conditions
area needed: 0.5 m
spacing: 0.3 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen: Deciduous
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 15ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 30ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity:
light demands: Medium
root type: Shallow
frost tender: Medium
hardness:โโโโโโโโโโ(5/10)
first harvest: 90 years
life span: 0 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Medium
max height: 0.3 m
max width: 0.5 m
soil preference:
Heavy
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
growth details: Marsilea quadrifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires consistently wet, marshy conditions. It can be propagated by division or from spores. For optimal growth, ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and maintain a layer of mulch to retain moisture. Companion plants include water lilies and cattails, which help create a balanced aquatic ecosystem. Common mistakes include allowing the soil to dry out and overcrowding plants. Harvest leaves when they are young and tender, and st
Potential Disturbances: Generally pest-free, but may occasionally be affected by aphids or snails. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to control aphids and use copper barriers to deter snails. Companion planting with marigolds can help repel pests.
Growth Timeline
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