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Marsilea quadrifolia Water clover (1 Page of 5) The Marsilea quadrifolia plant species is found in C. Europe to Asia. It is a member of the Marsileaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Water clover. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Marsilea quadrifolia Common Name: Water clover Family: Marsileaceae Author: L. Known Hazards: Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200].
Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase[172]. Mature Height: 0.2 Mature Width: Habitat: Ponds and paddy fields all over Japan[58].
Edible Uses: Young stems and leaves[105, 145]. A famine food, only used in times of scarcity[218].
The spores are produced in a sporocarp (like a fairly large container) and in allied species this is ground up and mixed with flour etc and used in making bread etc. It is rich in starch[144].
For further Marsilea quadrifolia gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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