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Pistia stratoites
Water Lettuce
| Enhance a garden pond with these floating, glossy green cups. Found on ponds and lakes from India to tropical America, it rises above the surface in crowded colonies and even takes root on shore if stranded. Tropical fish stores sell it for indoor aquariums, but it tends to gradually die off without sun. Thrives in warm humid weather, ideally 75º to 80º F. It may not survive at cooler temperatures. Provide lime-free water between 65º and 72º F. Do not let water drop below 50º F. Needs full light, but protect from strong summer sun. Enrich the pond bottom with decaying organic matter. When draining the pool for cleaning, farm Pistia out on a bed of moist loam and sand. |
Its small, tender leaves make a lovely miniature water garden in a barrel or tub.
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Attributes - Pistia stratoites
Plant Type: Perennial
Foliage: Semi-Deciduous
Height: 3 in. to 4 in.
Width: 4 in.
Sunlight: Full Sun, Partial Sun
Climate: Zones 9, 10
Notes: Thrives in Hot Climates. Container Plants, Low Maintenance.
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