Requires a sunny position in still water that is rich in nitrates and lime. A very small plant without differentiation into various parts such as leaf, stem etc (they are called Thalli), it is 8mm in diameter and often forming a mat on the water surface and perennating by means of buds (turions) that sink in autumn and rise to the surface in spring. The so-called rootcap (really only an apical swelling), has a higher specific gravity than any other part of the plant, righting capsized individuals.

The plant is sometimes used as a food. No more details are given.

The plant divides freely in the growing season and does not need help.

Still water in ditches and ponds.