Etymology: Potamogeton: from Greek potamos, "a river," and geiton, "a neighbor," because of the habitat
Plants: perennial, submersed aquatic; stems to 7' long; red spotted rhizomes
Leaves: alternate, entire, with prominent midvein; floating - heart-shaped base; submersed - stalk-like with no blade, held 90deg. off stem, lay flat on water
Flowers: green-brown, small; inflorescence dense cylindrical spike above water
Fruits: oval-to-ovate, plump, dry seed with a short, wrinkled beak
Habitat: water < 6' deep
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 5, Wetland Indicator = OBL USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos University of Wisconsin - Green Bay: Wetland Plants: Photos, descriptions, information USGS - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin