| Curlyleaf pondweed is a perennial, submerged, aquatic herb that is native to Eurasia. Leaves are sessile, oblong, stiff, 1.6-3.9 in. (4-10 cm) long, 0.2-0.4 in. (5-10 mm) wide, translucent and have noticeably curly margins (resemble lasagna noodles). Flowering occurs in the summer to early fall, when emergent flowers develop. Flowers are brown, inconspicuous and wind pollinated. Fruits are flat with a pointed beak and are 0.2 in. (4-6mm) long. In the midsummer plants form turions (vegetative buds), from which new growth starts in fall or winter. Curlyleaf pondweed tolerates fresh or slightly brackish water and can grow in shallow, deep, still or flowing water. Plants can grow in clear or turbid water, but are mostly shade intolerant. Plants were introduced to the United States, possibly as a hitchhiker on boats, in the mid-1800s. |
