Marsilea mutica, commonly known as Australian Water-Clover, is an evergreen perennial herb that thrives in a variety of wetland habitats, including temporary pools, slow-moving streams, and the margins of permanent lakes in Australia and New Caledonia. It is characterized by its clover-like fronds that float on the water’s surface or extend slightly above it, creating a carpet-like appearance. The fronds are typically 0.3 feet (0.09 meters) tall, with the plant spreading 2-10 feet (0.6-3 meters) wide. Australian Water-Clover is notable for its unique four-leafed fronds that resemble a four-leaf clover, which are actually compound leaves. It produces sporocarps rather than flowers, which are not showy but are of interest to those studying fern reproduction.

Australian Water-Clover is valued for its use in water gardens and ponds, where it provides an attractive ground cover and can help stabilize banks. It is also used in aquariums due to its tolerance of submersion. This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, and it requires consistent moisture, thriving in waterlogged soils and even shallow water. While it is adaptable to various drainage conditions, it does best in slow to fast-draining soils. Gardeners should be aware that in some regions, it can become invasive if conditions allow it to spread unchecked.CC BY-SA 4.0