The non-native species, Egeria, is a rooted perennial aquatic species that can also live detached and floating. Native to South America, the weed is found and now naturalized throughout the Southeastern states. It is dark green in appearance with 4 to 6 leaves in a whorl, increasing in density closer to the stem tip near the water’s surface. Leaf length is approximately 3/4 to 1 1/4 inches and only 1/2 inch wide. White flowers can be seen on emerged short stalks. Take note when identifying that Egeria is not confused with either Hydrilla or Elodea.
