Water Lettuce

Pistia stratiotes L.

Araceae (Arum Family)

▲water lettuce plants floating in a small pond

▲ closer view of single water lettuce plant, showing ridged, thick leaves

Water Lettuce:

·         a rooted floating aquatic weed, found more in southern U.S.

·         forms rosettes of thick, ridged and rigid leaves, with roots floating in water

·        can impeded boats and water activities when present in great numbers