Hairy Water Clover
Marsilea vestita
Care
full sun
1–1ft tall
Friendly
Fronds eaten raw in salads or cooked as greens; fern-like leaves
Wetlands and shallow water habitats of the Central Valley and northeastern California, below 3000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Hairy Water Clover in full sun where it has access to consistently wet habitat or water features - this is a plant that thrives in moist conditions, not a drought-tolerant groundcover. Space according to your desired coverage rate, keeping in mind it typically reaches about 1 foot in height. The Bay Area's mild climate means you can plant year-round, though spring establishment will give it the full growing season to develop.
After Planting
Water consistently to keep the soil wet; this plant is native to wetland areas and won't tolerate drying out. Since it's rated moderate for ease of care, monitor it closely during your first year to establish the right moisture level for your specific site. The biggest mistake people make is treating it like a typical groundcover and letting it dry out - remember, this is a water-loving fern that wants to stay damp.
Visit Calscape for more information about Hairy Water Clover
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Threatened species
Wildlife Supported
Birds
primary aquatic vegetation forager in marshes and shallow ponds statewide
migrating flocks use coastal and interior wetlands Sep-Nov, feed on aquatic vegetation
grazes on water clover fronds in California wetlands; resident and migratory populations
Insects
fungal disease affecting host plant tissues year-round
Mammals
subsidiary aquatic vegetation in beaver-modified wetlands and pond margins