Etymology: Sparganium: ancient name, probably sparganon for "a band," referring to ribbon-like leaves
Plants: erect, perennial, emergent semi-aquatic, 1'-3 1/2' tall; stems stout, spongy, flattened V-shape in cross section; roots a shallow, spreading rhizomes
Leaves: barely dilated at the base, ribbony, some floating or submersed; veins forming a net-like grid
Flowers: female flower green to white, 3-parted; inflorescence 3/4" round heads on branched, zigzagging stalk, upper heads male and smaller than the lower female heads; blooms June-July
Fruits: brown, wide, flat-topped, beaked nutlets in large, 1" wide, bur-like heads
Habitat: sun; wet; ditches, shallows, marshes, shores; in muddy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 5, Wetland Indicator = OBL Josh Sulman's Key to the Genus Sparganium: Interactive key with photos and descriptions USDA Plants Database: Federal Distribution and detailed information including photos USGS - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS): Images of seeds, fruits, embryos, etc.