Potamogeton natans - Broad-leaved Pondweed
These submerged perennial
weeds aren't always easy to identify, because the leaf shape varies according to the flow
of water. The submerged leaves are narrower than the floating leaves. The sample pictured
below is from a small pool where there is very little water movement.
In summer you may see spikes of small green flowers, but pondweeds
generally spread via their root systems and so flowering is unnecessary for
their continuity.
There are several related species. They are all rather similar,
although not all have floating leaves, and as hybrids also occur it can be difficult to
ascertain exactly which species are present in an area.
Wildflowers of Wales
This wildflower is one of many dozens that are featured in the First Nature Guide to the
Wonderful Wildflowers of Wales, Volume 4 - Watersides and Wetlands.
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