Scientific Name: Hydrilla verticillata
Distinguishing Characteristics:
- Small, strap-like leaves (1-inch long) in whorls of 3 to 8 around stem.
- Leaf margins noticeably serrate and rough to the touch; and sometimes small 2 to 4 barbs or spines on underside midrib of leaf.
- Resembles Elodea and Egeria which are smooth to the touch.
- Forms very dense mats reaching surface.
This is an exotic plant. If you observe this plant growing in the southeastern U.S., please take the time to report its location on the EDD Maps database at http://www.se-eppc.org/index.cfm.
