Description: herbaceous, perennial, aquatic plant that has stout, branching stems up to 0.1 in. (2-3 mm) thick. It is often found rooted in the mud of still bodies of water.  The leaves, which arise from rhizomes and are usually opposite and unequal. The leaves are cordate to subrotund in shape measuring from 2-6 in. (5-15 cm) long and wide.  The bright yellow flowers of Nymphoides peltata have five petals, and measure from 1-1.5 in. (3-4 cm) in diameter when fully open. There is one to several flowers on each stalk. The edges of the petals are fringed. This plant flowers from June to September.

 

Ecological Threat: has the potential to shade and crowd out native aquatic plants. In warmer areas, it has formed large stands that can block waterways. Still commonly sold as a plant for water gardens and can be carelessly disposed of into local waterbodies. It prefers the still waters found in lakes and ponds.

 

Biology & Spread:  It is often found in water gardens, which are the source of many of its introductions.

 

In Oklahoma:  First recorded in 1947 in Oklahoma.  Most recently it invaded Lake Carl Blackwell near Stillwater and has been treated by OSU and ODWC.  Read more