©Dolezal Publishing/Donna Krischan
Family
Azollaceae
Botanical Name
Azolla caroliniana
Plant Common Name
Carolina Mosquito Fern
General Description
Native to much of the eastern half of North America, Carolina mosquito fern is a tiny, feather aquatic fern that floats on the surface of still ponds and lake edges. Populations also extend down into Mexico and Central America. Its tiny fronds are bright green, often with a reddish or purplish-red hue. It's hard to believe this aquatic, floating plant is in fact a miniscule fern. It is free-floating and may be adapted to fresh or brackish water.
Carolina mosquito fern thrives in pools with full or partial sun. It may be added to water gardens or aquatic containers for color and interest. One unique trait of all Azolla species is their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form. They do this via a symbiosis with the cyanobacterium, Anabaena azollae. Nitrogen is one of the three vital macronutrients needed for plant health, so Azolla species have also been used as biofertilizers.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 1
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USDA Hardiness Zone
3 - 12
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Plant Type
Aquatics
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun
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Native To
North America, Northeastern United States, Mid-Atlantic United States, Southeastern United States, North-Central United States, Central United States, Mexico, Central America
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
None
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Foliage Texture
Fine
