Characteristics of Water Fern and How to Care for It: Get to Know This Aquatic Fern

Water fern is a type of fern that grows in water or at the water's edge, commonly found in shallow-water environments such as paddy fields, ponds, ditches and swamps, and is fairly widely distributed in the warm-climate regions of southern China. Its fronds are soft and emerald green and come in two forms: spreading sterile (vegetative) fronds and fertile fronds that bear spores. The whole plant is delicate and clean-looking, making it a highly recognizable kind of aquatic plant.

It is worth noting that water fern is listed in China as a national second-class key protected wild plant, and its wild populations are not particularly numerous. It is relatively sensitive to changes in water quality and usually only grows in dense patches in clean water bodies, so it is often regarded as an indicator plant of wetland environments. If you come across it in the wild, it is best to simply admire it and not dig it up at will.

In terms of uses, water fern can serve as an aquarium plant for aquascaping; it can both grow submerged and grow up above the water surface, adding a touch of natural wild charm to a fish tank. In some areas, its young fronds are also eaten as a wild vegetable, and there are some folk records of its use in medicine, but before eating or using it medicinally you should first find out its source and how it is prepared, and treat it with caution.

Keeping water fern at home is not difficult. It likes a warm, humid environment and is suited to a spot with clean water and soft light. In summer, avoid strong direct sun, and in winter take care to keep it warm. Apart from spore propagation, it also produces small buds on its fronds; these can be taken off and placed on the water surface to grow into new plants. The survival rate is relatively high, so even beginners can manage it easily.