Etymology: Potamogeton: from Greek potamos, "a river," and geiton, "a neighbor," because of the habitat
Plants: perennial, submersed aquatic; stems thick; rhizomes with black scales
Leaves: alternate, entire, prominent midvein, 25-37 veins; submersed -arched, folded, large, stalked; floating -oval, long stalk, many veins; large stipules
Flowers: green-brown, small; inflorescence dense spike
Fruits: oval-ovate beaked, dry seed with 3 low ridges
Habitat: water >3' deep; in soft sediment soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 7, Wetland Indicator = OBL USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos University of Wisconsin - Green Bay: Selected Wetland Plants: Photos, descriptions, information USGS - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin