Etymology: Sparganium: ancient name, probably sparganon for "a band," referring to ribbon-like leaves
Plants: floating, perennial aquatic with long stems
Leaves: rounded at the back, not keeled, upper leaves dilated at the base
Flowers: female flower green to white, 3-parted, inflorescence round heads on an unbranched stalk
Fruits: nutlets with the straight beak shorter than the body , in bur-like heads
Habitat: sun; wet; deep water, shallows; in muddy soil

Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 9 Josh Sulman's Key to the Genus Sparganium: Interactive key with photos and descriptions USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc.