Common Duckmeat
Spirodela polyrhiza
Last reviewed: July 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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Common Duckmeat need?
- Common Duckmeat grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Common Duckmeat bloom?
- Common Duckmeat blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Common Duckmeat native?
- Common Duckmeat (Spirodela polyrhiza) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Common Duckmeat HOA-friendly?
- Common Duckmeat takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Common Duckmeat? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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