Etymology: Spirodela: from Greek speira, "a cord," and delos, "evident," meaning "visible thread" and referring to the roots
Plants: floating perennial aquatic, clusters of several lobed leaves; stems none; 5-15 roots per leaf frond
Leaves: irregular oval, green above, dark red below
Fruits: reproduces by budding; new leaves staying attached to clump
Habitat: wet; ponds, lakes
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 USGS - Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center: Wetland Plants and Plant Communities of Minnesota and Wisconsin University of Wisconsin - Green Bay: Selected Wetland Plants: Photos, descriptions, information