Floating fern
Ceratopteris pteridoides

Family: Pteridaceae

What it is like

A floating fern which grows out in a ring. The fronds are indented around the edge. The fronds are pale green. The fertile fronds are larger and stick upwards.

There are 3-4 Ceratopteris species. It can spread rapidly and become a problem in lakes and ponds. Also put in the family Parkeriaceae.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. They float in ponds. They need a temperature above 24°C. It also grows on the soil of cultivated rice fields.

Countries/locations it is found in

Argentina, Asia, Bangladesh, Brazil, China, India, North America, Paraguay, SE Asia, South America, USA, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The fresh fronds can be eaten raw in salads. They are also cooked and eaten either alone or with other vegetables.

Edible parts

Leaves, fronds

How it is grown

It spreads by buds of new plants in the notches of leaves.

Its other names

Local names

Panidhekia

Synonyms

Parkeria pteridoides Hook.;