Pistia stratiotes, commonly known as Water Lettuce, is a floating aquatic plant with rosettes of soft, velvety green leaves that resemble open heads of lettuce. It forms dense mats on the water surface, helping to shade ponds, reduce algae growth, and provide shelter for fish and other aquatic life. This fast-growing, easy-to-care-for plant thrives in warm, nutrient-rich waters and adds texture and interest to any water garden.