Common Nardoo
Marsilea drummondii
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Pl. C1EC — Marsilea drummondii
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IOverview
Overview
Common Nardoo, scientifically known as Marsilea drummondii, is a small herbaceous plant native to the southeastern and western regions of Australia. It thrives in wet habitats such as swamps and along riverbanks, growing up to 0.3 meters tall. This plant is valued for its edible seeds, which can be consumed after processing. Common Nardoo prefers light to partial shade and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils. Its hardiness ranges from zones 8-11, making it adaptable to different climates within its native range. One distinctive feature is the presence of four leaflets resembling small clover leaves, which are characteristic of this species.
Quick answers
What is Common Nardoo?
Common Nardoo, scientifically known as Marsilea drummondii, is a small herbaceous plant native to the southeastern and western regions of Australia. It thrives in wet habitats such as swamps and along riverbanks, growing up to 0.3 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Common Nardoo thrives in full to partial sun and prefers wet conditions, making it suitable for areas with consistent moisture. It grows well in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. This plant is hardy in zones 8-11, though it may be adaptable to other temperate regions given its native range across Australia. For propagation, seeds are the recommended method.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Wet, Water
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
8-11
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Common Nardoo for the first time
7steps
Start with Common Nardoo as a simple, low-maintenance plant for your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot or patch of soil in the garden, seeds, and water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Common Nardoo during spring when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a mix of light, medium, or heavy types. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm in diameter.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds into moist soil or start them indoors and transplant once they have grown a few leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist. Provide partial sun to full sun exposure as needed.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize sparingly with compost or organic matter once a year.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and stems in late winter to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The Common Nardoo's seeds are edible and can be prepared in various ways. They are often ground into flour or roasted before consumption. Skip the raw form as it is not palatable without preparation.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
6 native · 2 introduced
Distribution
6 native · 2 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 6 native· 2 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)France
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Thailand
Broader regions
native:Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia, Northern Territory, New South Wales
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · c1ec5833-3d39-41d6-ab18-b4bf8810489a
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