Lisa: Bill Cody sent your link my direction, and it immediately stumped me. I've never seen such a plant! When (exactly) did you first notice it's presence - and do you have any idea of its origin? I've submitted a composite photo of your plant (linked below) to a well versed PhD at Texas A&M. Although I'm certain that your plant isn't found in our parts, the fellow at A&M is "well traveled" and may be able to offer an ID. I'll keep you posted if and when I hear back from him. MA Aquatic Plant
I am very grateful for your interest in this specimen! As I mentioned, I have owned this property for over 20 years. I have neglected the pond over the last few years due to illness, and sure enough it has suffered because of it.
The duck weed showed up two years ago, and this mystery plant arrived this year (a couple of months ago perhaps). I am a bit alarmed as there are a LOT of them. They are already filling in one side of the pond. I want to get rid of them, as they don't belong here! Please tell me that it is not some darn endangered species!
My health is better this year, so I have been out trying regain the pond (the muck is biblical). Now I am thinking the muck is not my biggest problem.
Well, I learned about a new aquatic plant species today... My friend at Texas A&M University (btw; one of the top schools in the nation, although I might be slightly biased ) solved this mystery. It's American featherfoil; PLUS he indicated that it is also found in parts of Northeast and Deep East Texas - which is a big surprise to me since I've never encountered it. "American featherfoil is native to...