Carolina Mosquitofern
Azolla caroliniana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
0.5"–2" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 28 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Carolina mosquitofern is a tiny floating aquatic fern that forms dense mats on the surface of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving waterways. This diminutive native plant has delicate, overlapping fronds that create a carpet-like appearance on water surfaces. It requires consistent moisture or standing water to thrive and is not suitable for traditional landscape beds.
In an HOA neighborhood
Carolina Mosquitofern takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires water features or constantly wet conditions
- Can spread aggressively in aquatic settings
- Not suitable for traditional landscaping applications
Wildlife value
This aquatic fern provides habitat for small fish, amphibians, and aquatic insects. It also helps control mosquito populations by creating surface coverage that limits breeding habitat.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Carolina Mosquitofern fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.