Marsilea mutica 'Variegata' Play pronunciation

Marsilea mutica 'Variegata,' or variegated water clover, is an aquatic plant cultivar with a four-leaf clover-like appearance, used in ponds to provide aquatic life with a habitat. The foliage on this specimen resembles a four-leaf clover but has a red-to-brown arching stripe on the leaves. It forms a floating mat and will help cover the water's surface. This plant grows 4 to 12 inches tall, 6 to 18 inches below the water surface, and can spread 20 to 40 feet. The species is native to northern and eastern Australia and belongs to the pillwort family of aquatic and semi-aquatic ferns (Marsileaceae).

This water plant is highly aggressive, spreading by vigorous rhizomes, and grows in moist soil or shallow water up to 3 inches deep. Place it in full sun to partial shade. It likes wet feet, so plant it in a water garden or pond, or use it in a rain or cottage style garden. To manage the spread, plant in a 1-gallon container. It is hardy in zones 5 through 11.

Consider this plant for a water garden, rain garden, or pond. It helps prevent algae growth and keeps the water cleaner. This aquatic plant also produces oxygen, which is essential for aquatic life. Dense mats of foliage will provide shelter and shade for fish and other aquatic life.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No significant insect pests or diseases. High maintenance, aggressive, and weedy. The species is considered invasive in Alabama.