July 21, 2018: Longleaf Pondweed

Algae is covering many of the Park's ponds and pools.  However, some of the ponds (ie. Pond J)  are also being "coated" with Longleaf Pondweed (Potamogeton nodosus), a member of the pondweed family (Potamogetonaceae).  This aquatic perennial is common in North America, and can also be found in South America and Eurasia.  This species commonly grows in shallow water, but can grow to depths up to 20 feet.  The plants consist of submerged branching stems that have both submerged and floating leaves.  The vertical objects are the floral spikes.  The blooming period can occur from late Spring to late Summer.  Colonies can be troublesome in drainage canals, irrigation ditches, and other controlled aquatic systems.  This species was once called American Pondweed. (Wolf. Oesterreich, 78/18)