Etymology: Sparganium: ancient name, probably sparganon for "a band," referring to ribbon-like leaves
Plants: floating, perennial, up to 5' tall aquatic; stems slender and long
Leaves: floating, flat, thin, translucent
Flowers: female flower green to white, 3-parted; inflorescence round heads on a branched stalk, male heads (2-4) and female heads separated
Fruits: red-brown, dull nutlet with a curved beak, , in bur-like heads
Habitat: sun; wet; quiet water; in muddy soil
Conservation Status: Native

Flora of North America: Flora of North America Floristic Rating: Coefficient of Conservatism = 10, 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