DIFFICULTY Easy–Moderate

A forgiving choice for newer planted tanks.

LIGHT Moderate

Around 9 hours is a useful starting point.

CO₂ Optional

Injection is not normally necessary.

GROWTH Medium

Biweekly trimming needs.

PLANT OVERVIEW

About Marsilea quadrifolia

A clover-like carpet fern that tolerates low tech.

Marsilea quadrifolia is a creeping fern whose submersed leaves range from single blades to four-leaf clovers depending on light. It's one of the more forgiving carpets, spreading slowly along the substrate even without CO2.
Shrimp friendly Nano suitable Low-tech suitable High-tech suitable Fry cover
CARE PROFILE

What this plant needs.

The useful numbers and practical notes, grouped around how you actually keep the plant.

TANK FIT

Placement + size

Primary placementForeground
Typical height1–4 in
Typical width3 in
Suggested minimum tank5 gal
Suggested tank height8 in+
LIGHT + CO₂

Energy demand

Ideal lightModerate
Photoperiod range8–11 hr
Approx. PAR20–55
Injected CO₂Optional
CO₂ benefitModerate
NUTRITION

Where it feeds

Root feedingModerate
Water-column feedingLow
Overall fertilizer demandModerate
Iron demandModerate
MicronutrientsModerate
WATER

Useful parameter range

Temperature68–80°F
pH5.5–7.2
GH1–12 dGH
KH0–8 dKH
PLANTING

How to plant it.

Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate

Plant rhizome bits into substrate; leaf form varies from single to four-lobed with conditions.

GROWTH + PROPAGATION

What to expect after planting.

Propagation

Runners / division

Acclimation

Melts back before carpeting if light/CO2 are marginal.

COMMON PROBLEMS

What usually goes wrong.

Fails to stay low and carpet without strong light and CO2; lifts if roots are shallow.