Pacific Azolla
Azolla filiculoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
1"–3" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 15 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pacific azolla is a tiny floating aquatic fern that forms dense mats on water surfaces. This diminutive plant spreads rapidly across ponds and water features, turning reddish in fall and winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pacific Azolla 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.
- Requires permanent water feature
- Can become invasive and overtake water bodies
- May be viewed as pond scum by neighbors
Wildlife value
Provides habitat for aquatic invertebrates and can serve as food for waterfowl. The dense mats offer shelter for small fish and amphibians.
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 Pacific Azolla fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.