Carolina Fanwort

(Cabomba caroliniana)

Fanwort is a perennial submersed or sometimes floating aquatic herb. Fanwort is native to the southeastern United States, but is easily spread and has created nuisance conditions as far north as New York, Michigan and Oregon.

Other names for this plant include:

• Common names: Carolina fanwort, fish grass, Carolina water-shield
• Scientific names: Cabomba caroliniana var caroliniana; C. australis

Ecological threat:

• Forms dense stands in some areas, crowding out other vegetation, clogging streams and drainage canals, and interfering with recreational, agricultural and aesthetic water uses.
• Control is difficult, as fragmentation can cause resprouting.