How much sun does Narrow-leaf Duckweed need?

Narrow-leaf Duckweed grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Narrow-leaf Duckweed bloom?

Narrow-leaf Duckweed blooms in April, May, and June.

Where is Narrow-leaf Duckweed native?

Narrow-leaf Duckweed (Lemna trisulca) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Narrow-leaf Duckweed toxic to livestock?

The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Narrow-leaf Duckweed as toxic to livestock.

Is Narrow-leaf Duckweed HOA-friendly?

Narrow-leaf Duckweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Narrow-leaf Duckweed

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Lemna trisulca

Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Narrow-leaf Duckweed as toxic to livestock.

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

1"–4" H × 1"–4" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Sierra Nevada Southern California Mountains Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range

Narrow-leaf duckweed is a tiny aquatic plant that floats on the surface of ponds, slow streams, and water gardens. This native plant forms small colonies of delicate, three-lobed leaves that stay submerged or float just below the water surface. It produces inconspicuous flowers in spring and early summer.

In an HOA neighborhood

Narrow-leaf Duckweed 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.

Aquatic plant only suitable for water features
Can spread aggressively and cover entire pond surfaces
May be considered unsightly when it forms dense mats

Wildlife value

This aquatic plant provides habitat for small aquatic invertebrates and serves as food for waterfowl and fish. It helps oxygenate water and provides cover for aquatic wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Narrow-leaf Duckweed need?: Narrow-leaf Duckweed grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Narrow-leaf Duckweed bloom?: Narrow-leaf Duckweed blooms in April, May, and June.
Where is Narrow-leaf Duckweed native?: Narrow-leaf Duckweed (Lemna trisulca) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Narrow-leaf Duckweed toxic to livestock?: The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Narrow-leaf Duckweed as toxic to livestock.
Is Narrow-leaf Duckweed HOA-friendly?: Narrow-leaf Duckweed 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 Narrow-leaf Duckweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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