Water Lettuce

No, Water Lettuce is a free-floating plant. It does not require any substrate or soil, as it absorbs nutrients directly from the water through its dangling root system.

Yes, Water Lettuce is a favored food source for koi. While it provides excellent natural filtration and shade, be prepared for your fish to snack on the leaves and roots, which may require you to replenish the plants periodically.

While it is primarily intended for outdoor ponds, it can survive in an indoor aquarium if you provide high-intensity lighting and ensure the water temperature stays above 65 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it grows quite rapidly and may quickly cover the entire surface of a smaller tank.

Water Lettuce propagates quickly via runners and plantlets. If the plant begins to overtake your pond surface, simply scoop out the excess growth with a net; this is also a great way to remove the nutrients the plant has absorbed from the water.

This is a tropical plant that thrives in warm conditions. It requires a minimum water temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit (18.33 degrees Celsius) and is best suited for hardiness zones 8 through 10.

Water Lettuce performs best in full sun to partial shade. While it can tolerate medium light, it will grow most vigorously and maintain its vibrant green color when exposed to brighter, more direct light conditions.