Etymology: Butomus: Greek bous for "ox;" tomos for "cutting" referring to sharp leaf edge, unsuitable for fodder
Plants: erect, perennial, emergent aquatic 1'-5' tall; stout rhizomes
Leaves: sword-shaped, narrow, triangular in cross section, up to 40" tall
Flowers: pink to white, 3- or 6-parted, 3/4"-1" wide, on thin stalks; inflorescence rounded, irregular umbels; blooms June-Aug.
Fruits: dry seed with a long beaked; rarely germinating
Habitat: wet; shores, marshes, lakes, streams; in muddy soil
Invasiveness: Prohibited Invasive - Eradicate!
Conservation Status: Introduced - locally established; potentially invasive

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Wetland Indicator = OBL WIS DNR-Bureau of Endangered Resources: Detailed information on Wisconsin invasive species including decription, habitats, control methods USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos University of Wisconsin - Green Bay: Invasive Plants: Photos, descriptions, information USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc. USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc.