Southeastern Wisconsin Invasive Species Consortium, Inc.

SEWISC

Shop Local

Curly-leaf Pondweed

Curly-leaf Pondweed

Curly-leaf pondweed

(Potamogeton crispus)

General description:

A perennial, submerged aquatic herb that is native to Eurasia. Tolerates fresh or slightly brackish water and can grow in shallow, deep, still, or flowing water.

Ecological threat:

  • Invades freshwater lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and in slightly brackish waters. Can become dominant and invasive due to its tolerance for low light and low water temperatures.
  • May outcompete other underwater plants and become dominant, which causes problems due to the formation of dense mats that interfere with recreational activities.
  • Also causes an increase in phosphorus concentrations, causing an increase in algae blooms and a pile up of dying P. crispus along the shore.
Photo Gallery: