Nardoo (Marsilea drummondii): An Unusual Aquatic Fern for Water Gardens
If you’ve ever wondered what it would look like if a four-leaf clover decided to take up swimming, meet nardoo (Marsilea drummondii). This quirky aquatic fern brings a touch of the unusual to water gardens with its distinctive clover-like fronds that float gracefully on the water’s surface.
What Makes Nardoo Special?
Nardoo stands out in the plant world as one of the few ferns that has fully embraced aquatic life. Unlike typical ferns that prefer shady forest floors, this perennial forb has adapted to life in and around water. Its four-leaflet fronds resemble lucky clovers, but don’t be fooled – this is no ordinary clover!
As an obligate wetland plant in the Arid West region, nardoo almost always occurs in wetland environments. It’s perfectly at home with its feet underwater and its leaves floating on the surface, creating an interesting textural element in water features.
Where Does Nardoo Come From?
Originally hailing from Australia, nardoo has made itself at home in California, where it grows as an introduced species that reproduces spontaneously in the wild. While it’s established itself successfully, it’s important to note that this isn’t a native North American plant.
Should You Grow Nardoo in Your Garden?
The answer depends on what you’re trying to achieve in your landscape. Here are some considerations:
Nardoo Might Be Right for You If:
- You have a water garden, pond, or bog garden that needs an unusual focal point
- You’re looking for a low-maintenance aquatic plant
- You enjoy collecting unique or unusual plants
- You live in a warm climate (USDA zones 8-11)
- You have consistently moist to wet conditions
Consider Native Alternatives If:
- You’re focused on supporting local ecosystems and wildlife
- You want plants that provide direct benefits to pollinators (nardoo reproduces via spores, not flowers)
- You’re working on habitat restoration projects
For those interested in native aquatic plants, consider alternatives like native water lilies, arrowhead (Sagittaria species), or native sedges that provide similar wetland functions while supporting local wildlife.
Growing Nardoo Successfully
If you decide nardoo fits your garden vision, here’s how to grow it successfully:
Ideal Growing Conditions:
- Light: Full sun to partial shade
- Water: Constantly moist to submerged conditions – this plant loves having wet feet!
- Soil: Muddy or clay soils work best
- Climate: Thrives in warm climates (zones 8-11)
Planting and Care Tips:
- Plant in shallow water (1-6 inches deep) or in saturated soil along pond margins
- Ensure consistent moisture – never let it dry out
- Allow room for spreading, as it can expand via underground runners
- Minimal fertilization needed in rich, muddy conditions
- In colder climates, treat as an annual or bring potted specimens indoors
Design Ideas for Your Water Garden
Nardoo works beautifully as:
- A floating accent plant in naturalistic ponds
- Groundcover in bog gardens
- An interesting contrast to upright aquatic plants like cattails
- A conversation starter in contemporary water features
The Bottom Line
Nardoo offers something genuinely different for water garden enthusiasts willing to try something new. While it won’t attract butterflies or support native wildlife like indigenous plants would, it brings its own charm with those distinctive four-part leaves dancing on the water’s surface. Just remember to keep it well-watered – after all, this little Australian has made a life out of never being far from a drink!
Whether you choose nardoo or opt for native aquatic alternatives, the key is selecting plants that match both your garden’s conditions and your conservation values. Happy gardening!
