Care Guide
Four leaf clover
Marsilea Quadrifolia
Care at a Glance
Lighting
Adaptable
Growth Rate
Moderate
Growth Form
Varies
Placement
Versatile
True Aquatic
Yes
Available As
2” and 4” pots
About This Plant
Marsilea quadrifolia Solid green leaves approximately 2” in diameter with four lobes. Low, spreading fern.
About the Marsilea Genus
Family — Marsileaceae
Marsilea is a small clover-like fern that forms a low carpet in moderate light. It is much less demanding than other carpeting plants and is a good first foreground choice for low-tech tanks.
Quick-Reference Details
- Common name
- Four leaf clover
- Scientific name
- Marsilea Quadrifolia
- Family
- Marsileaceae
- Native to
- Spain to Japan, naturalized in eastern North America
- Difficulty
- Intermediate
- Requirements
- Hardy marginal
- Available as
- 2” and 4” pots
Difficulty — Intermediate
Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
CO2 & Fertilization
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Tank Size & Setup
Works in tanks 10 gallons and up. Match the plant size to your tank depth for the cleanest aquascape.
Aquascaping & Placement
Position to suit your aquascape — most placements work as long as light reaches the leaves.
Tank-Mate Compatibility
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage. Tough enough for cichlid tanks and goldfish setups where most other plants are uprooted or eaten — the leaves are too leathery for those fish to chew through.
Pro Tips for Growing Four leaf clover
- 1Plant in small clumps spaced 2-3 cm apart and let runners fill in the gaps.
- 2Under low light Marsilea grows tall with four-leaf clover tops; under high light it stays low and produces single-leaf carpets.
Common Care Issues
Slow initial growth
Most aquarium plants pause for 2-4 weeks after planting while they convert from their nursery-grown emersed form to fully submerged growth. New leaves that emerge underwater will look thinner and slightly different — this is the plant adapting, not a problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much light does Four leaf clover need?
Four leaf clover adapts to most planted-tank lighting setups. A standard LED fixture run 7-9 hours a day produces good growth.
Does Four leaf clover need CO2?
CO2 is optional. Growth improves with supplementation, but the plant survives and stays presentable without it.
Is Four leaf clover good for beginners?
Four leaf clover is rated intermediate-level. Forgiving enough for hobbyists with one tank of experience. Watch lighting and nutrient levels for best growth.
How fast does Four leaf clover grow?
Most planted-tank growers report moderate growth, with trims needed every few weeks under typical conditions.
What fish and invertebrates are compatible with Four leaf clover?
Compatible with the full range of community-tank species — tetras, rasboras, livebearers, corydoras, and most other peaceful freshwater fish do not damage the foliage. Tough enough for cichlid tanks and goldfish setups where most other plants are uprooted or eaten — the leaves are too leathery for those fish to chew through.
Available to Purchase
Four leaf clover — $20.99
Free 2-day shipping on orders over $100