Etymology: Potamogeton: from Greek potamos, "a river," and geiton, "a neighbor," because of the habitat
Plants: perennial, submersed aquatic; stems flattened, angled, freely branching; slight rhizomes
Leaves: alternate, entire, with prominent midvein; stiff, linear, many fine parallel veins, none floating; firm stipules free in leaf axil;
Flowers: green-brown, small; inflorescence cylindrical spike, spike above the water
Fruits: oval, dry seed with a sharp, narrow dorsal ridge
Habitat: water from shallow to >12' deep; in soft sediment soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 6, Wetland Indicator = OBL USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos