Archetype 3 – Lemna Lace Leaf
This plant’s unique perforated leaf morphology is designed to create a series of air tunnels that funnel air down to the roots, increasing its chance of survival under flooded conditions. The air pockets in the fronds provide buoyancy, enabling the plant to stay afloat. Each plant has three roots, one of which acts as a prominent anchor that prevents the plant from drifting in wind and water turbulence. The other two roots entangle with neighbouring plants. The small dark dots are called turions (winter buds) which separate from the frond and sink to the sediment, when the surrounding water freezes. As the water warms in spring, the buds float to the surface and germinate.