A fast growing floating plant. Suitable for tropical freshwater aquariums. From a snail free environment and is shrimp safe.

This species can also be grown outdoors in ponds when warmer weather permits, such as the seasons of Summer and Autumn.

Propagation occurs both vegetatively by runners and sexually, with seed-producing flowers. Small, ridged leaves form radial rosettes, with hanging roots that may reach 30cm (11.8") or more in length. Roots are white, purple and black in colour.

In an aquarium, it must be pruned to prevent blocking light needed by plants in the lower water column. The roots provide cover for fish that inhabit the upper water column, and can also be used by bubble-nesting fish such as Gouramis and Bettas. Kuhli Loaches may also use these as spawning areas.

Pistia may also stave off excessive algae growth and algae blooms in aquaria, where it outcompetes algae for nutrients and light. All plants will be approx 1 inch in diameter or larger.