| Etymology | Genus | After Antonio Salvini, a 17th century Italian scholar |
|---|---|---|
| Species | In Latin, annoying or troublesome; in reference to its invasive nature | |
| Family | Salviniaceae | |
| Synonyms | - | |
| Common Names | Giant Salvinia | |
| Status | Exotic: Naturalised | |
| Form | Aquatic Herb | |
| Native Distribution | Brazil | |
Salvinia molesta is an aquatic freshwater fern that is free-floating on the water surface. It has simple and oppositely arranged leaves. The leaf has a slight bend at the midvein. When growing in clumped conditions, the leaves will become wavy.
A man-made pond with lilies and the Giant Salvinia.
Close-up.
Stems and leaf arrangement.
Water repellent surface of leaves.