October 10, 2024, 10:59 am | Read time: 2 minutes
The mussel flower, also known as water lettuce, is a popular plant for ponds and aquariums. However, it is now banned – if you plant it anyway, you could face a hefty fine.
Since 2016, the European Union has maintained a list of invasive alien species known as the Union List. It lists both plants and animals that threaten the biodiversity of native flora and fauna. As of August 2024, this list has expanded to include 88 items, with the addition of the mussel flower. As a result, it is banned and cannot be legally purchased or sold. Failure to comply could result in a significant financial penalty.
The mussel flower is considered an alien species
Originating from South America, the mussel flower is not native to the EU. However, certain plant species spread around the world solely through trade, transportation, and travel. The Federal Office for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Nuclear Safety and Consumer Protection (BMUV) points out that alien species can have negative consequences for biodiversity in new regions. They are, therefore, declared as invasive species.
Consequently, the mussel flower is now classified as invasive and has been added to the banned list. The free-floating aquatic plant grows in rosettes that can reach a diameter of more than 60 centimeters. It spreads rapidly, especially at high temperatures. In ponds, however, it is usually an annual as it is not hardy. However, there are warnings that this does not prevent it from multiplying and spreading – for example, if a bird carries parts of the plant. The mussel flower was already placed on the EU list in 2022, but there was a delay, which is why it is only now officially banned.
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Fines of up to 50,000 euros may be imposed
If a plant is on the Union List, it may not be intentionally brought into the territory of the EU. Furthermore, it may not be intentionally kept, bred, traded, used, exchanged, propagated, or released into the environment, according to the EU regulation.
Individuals who already owned a mussel flower prior to August 2, 2024, are permitted to retain it. Only new specimens may no longer be added. Additionally, the plant must not be transferred to others. If, for example, an aquarium is closed down or sold privately, the mussel flower may not be passed on. Anyone who disregards the ban risks a substantial fine. According to the Federal Nature Conservation Act, you could be fined up to 50,000 euros.
Note: To dispose of the mussel flower, it should be placed in the residual waste. It should never be discarded in compost or organic waste to prevent further spreading.