Menu
Log in
site_logo

Lemna landoltii Halder & Venu

Lemna landoltii is a minute, free-floating aquatic plant that belongs to the Araceae family. It is recognized for its rapid vegetative growth and role in freshwater ecosystems.

Introduction & Overview

Common and Scientific Names

  • Scientific Name: Lemna landoltii Halder & Venu
  • Common Name: Landoltii duckweed

Quick Facts

  • Origin: Native to parts of South Asia; thrives on the surface of calm freshwater bodies
  • Features: Tiny, rounded fronds and rapid reproduction make it both an interesting subject for ecological study and a practical tool in water quality management

Taxonomy & Classification

  • Genus: Lemna
  • Botanical Background: Described by botanists Halder and Venu. Their work contributed to the understanding of aquatic aroids and helped highlight the ecological importance of these diminutive plants.

Natural Habitat & Distribution

  • Geographical Range: Found in freshwater bodies of South Asia
  • Environment: Thrives in nutrient-rich, still water with high humidity.  Prefers calm conditions that allow it to float freely on the water surface.

Morphological Characteristics

Leaves

  • Extremely small, generally oval or obovate in shape
  • Smooth texture and a vibrant green coloration

Inflorescence (Spadix & Spathe)

  • Flowering is rare and the inflorescence is reduced in size
  • Flowers are minute and not the primary feature of the species

Growth Habit

  • Aquatic, free-floating plant that reproduces mainly through clonal budding
  • Lacks an extensive root system and does not form tubers or traditional rhizomes

Cultivation & Care

Light Requirements

  • Bright, indirect light conditions that simulate natural sunlight

Watering & Humidity

  • Requires clean, still water and a consistently humid environment
  • Regular water changes can help maintain optimum conditions

Soil & Potting Mix

  • Ccultivation requires a support medium, a shallow container with a nutrient-rich substrate is adequate

Temperature & Fertilizer

  • Ideal water temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C
  • Diluted aquatic fertilizer can be used

Propagation Methods

Division and Cuttings

  • Propagation occurs almost exclusively via vegetative budding
  • Clonal division of fronds is the simplest and most common method to increase populations


Seeds

  • Seed production is infrequent, and germination is not typically used for propagation in this species

Common Pests & Diseases

Typical Issues

  • Can be affected by fungal infections and water pollutants

Treatment Recommendations

  • Organic treatments or mild fungicidal application
  • Ensuring optimal water conditions

Notable Traits & Uses

  • Used as a bioindicator in water quality studies and plays a role in natural water purification
  • Simplicity makes it a favorite model organism for ecological research
  • Adds a subtle, tropical charm to indoor gardens and specialized aroid collections
  • Unique characteristics and rapid growth make it valuable in scientific studies and sustainable water management practices

Conservation & Availability

Wild Population Status

  • No major conservation concerns; localized water pollution and habitat changes can impact natural populations

Market Availability

  • Commonly used in research settings and can be sourced from specialized aquatic plant suppliers rather than mainstream horticultural markets

References & Resources

Further Reading

LOVE AROIDS?

Immerse yourself in aroid bliss by joining our family of thousands of ariod enthusiasts worldwide today.

You’ll love the benefits and incredible community.

Shop IAS Merch

Shop our merch store! The 2025 Limited Edition items, designed by Andrew Blaurock, are available for a limited time.

Frank Luca Anthurium Nov
DF Unisex Hoodie

$38.00

'Stripey' Unisex Classic
Tee

$25.00

'Stripey' Unisex V-Neck
T-Shirt

$25.00

'Stripey' Unisex T-shirt

$25.00

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software
Document