Origin and Common Names
Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. is a floating aquatic fern that belongs to the Lemnaceae family. It is native to Chile and commonly known as the Chilean duckweed, South American duckweed, or Valdivian duckweed.
Appearance
The Valdivian duckweed is a small plant, with a size varying from 1.5 to 3.5 mm in length. It has small oval-shaped fronds, which are green with reddish-purple/ brown spots on the upper surface. It has a short, well-defined root hanging from the underside of the frond that has a length of 1–3mm. The plant's reproductive structures are also small, inconspicuous, and usually enclosed within the frond sheath's tissue.
Uses
The Valdivian duckweed is used mainly for its medicinal properties in traditional Andean medicine. Its extracts have been found to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative effects on human cells. It is also used to treat liver and kidney diseases, and as a digestive tonic. Additionally, it is a good bioindicator of environmental stress and has been used in biomonitoring studies of water contamination caused by heavy metals and other pollutants. It is also a food source for ducks, fish and other aquatic animals
Light Requirements
Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. is a plant that thrives in areas exposed to bright and direct sunlight. With sufficient light, photosynthesis takes place, and the plant can produce food necessary for growth and development. Insufficient lighting conditions could lead to stunted growth or death of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety can tolerate different temperature ranges, but it mostly grows well between 20°C and 24°C. Growth is optimal in temperatures above 20°C, while temperatures below 10°C may cause growth to slow down or entirely stop. It is best to maintain the plant in a stable environment to avoid exposure to extreme conditions.
Soil Requirements
Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. does not require soil to grow. This aquatic plant species floats freely on water and extracts its nutrients from the water. It prefers a still water containing a high concentration of dissolved minerals and nutrients. It is adaptive to a wide range of pH levels, with an optimal range of around 6-7.
Cultivation methods
Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. can be cultivated both indoors in a container or outdoors in a pond filled with still water. This plant requires minimal care and maintenance, making it an excellent option for beginners or those who are looking for an easy-to-grow plant.
Watering needs
The plant requires frequent watering for optimum growth. It is essential to maintain a consistent water level throughout the day, as Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. is a floating plant and cannot sustain underwater conditions. While the plant thrives in still water, occasional water movement can also help improve its growth rate.
Fertilization
An adequate amount of nutrients is essential for the growth and development of Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. These plants respond well to organic liquid fertilizers. They absorb nutrients directly from the water, so it's essential to maintain the balance of nutrients in the water. Overfertilization must be avoided, as excess nutrients can lead to the proliferation of algae, which may reduce the plant's growth rate.
Pruning
Pruning is not usually required for Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. However, if the plant becomes overgrown, it may block sunlight from reaching other plants in the pond or aquarium, and it may need to be trimmed from time to time. The trimmed portions can be used for composting, and the plant can continue to thrive without any issues.
Propagation of Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm.
The best way to propagate Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. is through vegetative fragmentation. This species reproduces asexually by budding off small daughter plants, which then become independent clones. This method of propagation is quite fast and easy, making it a popular way to expand populations of the plant.
Another way to propagate Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. is through sexual reproduction. This species is a monoecious annual plant, meaning that each individual produces both male and female flowers. The flowers are small and grow on a fleshy spike that emerges from the thallus. Self-pollination occurs underwater, and each female flower produces a single seed.
Propagation through sexual reproduction is slower and more unpredictable than vegetative fragmentation. However, it is essential for genetic diversity, and in the long run, it is crucial for the survival of the species.
It's essential to clean the plants thoroughly before propagation. The plant's size should not be more than 1 square inch, and they can be transferred to the new location by just placing them on the water surface. They will then begin to spread and form colonies.
Disease Management
Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. is relatively disease-resistant, but it may be susceptible to a few diseases. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Pythium rot: This disease is caused by Pythium spp. and may result in the death of the plant. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and softening of the plant tissue. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, ensure good drainage, and treat with fungicides if necessary.
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens and may cause yellowing and spotting of the plant leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant material, improve air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by various fungi and may cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage this disease, improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Lemna valdiviana Phil. var. minima Hegelm. is also relatively pest-resistant, but it may attract a few pests. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Red spider mites: These pests are tiny and may cause yellowing of the plant leaves. To manage these pests, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These pests may cluster on the plant leaves and cause curling or yellowing of the leaves. To manage these pests, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests are small and can be identified by their white, cottony appearance. To manage these pests, remove and destroy infected plant material and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
