An Australian native aquatic fern with four-lobed clover-like leaves that float on the surface or stand above damp mud. An iconic inland wetland plant; its spore cases were ground for food by Aboriginal peoples.
At a glance
- Plant type: Aquatic plant
- Mature size: 20 cm H × 60 cm W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: wet or boggy ground
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Australian native
About Nardoo
Botanically, Marsilea drummondii is an fast-growing aquatic plant in the Marsileaceae family, native to Australia. It reaches around 20 cm tall and 60 cm wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage.
Where to grow Nardoo
Nardoo suits subtropical, warm-temperate and arid and semi-arid climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Nardoo does best in clay soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Nardoo is wet or boggy ground. As an Australian native, feed it only with a low-phosphorus native fertiliser. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune Nardoo in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Nardoo in the garden
Nardoo earns its place for a feature or specimen planting and holding soil on banks and slopes.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Nardoo with other plants that enjoy the same wet or boggy ground and subtropical climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm. It combines naturally with other Australian natives in a habitat or water-wise garden.
Buying Nardoo
Plant Sale lists Nardoo as potted plants. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.