Common Duckmeat
Spirodela polyrhiza
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
0.5"–1" H × 2"–4" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Great duckweed is a tiny floating aquatic plant that forms dense mats on the surface of ponds, lakes, and slow-moving water. Each plant consists of small, round, flat fronds that multiply rapidly through budding. This native species requires permanent water and cannot survive in typical garden soil conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Duckmeat takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aquatic plant unsuitable for typical landscaping
- Can become invasive and cover entire water features
- May appear messy or unkempt to neighbors
Wildlife value
Provides food for waterfowl, fish, and aquatic invertebrates. The dense mats offer shelter and breeding habitat for small aquatic animals.
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 Common Duckmeat fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.