Alismataceae

Sagittaria platyphylla

Common Names: Delta arrowhead

Plant Form: Perennial aquatic herb. Size: Up to 80 cm tall above water. Stem: Triangular. Leaves: Submerged leaves are translucent and strap-like. Emerged leaves are usually lance-shaped up to 28 cm long but can be narrow and grass-like if subject to disturbance. Flowers: Whorled or coiled, 3 cm diameter with 3 white petals and a yellow centre. Fruit and Seeds: In clusters with flattened and winged segments. 1 seed in each segment. Habitat: Irrigation channels, drains, shallow creeks, wetlands. Distinguishing Features: Similar to Alisma (Alisma lanceolota) but submerged leaves are different. Similar to other Sagittaria species, but generally with lance-shaped leaves. Impacts: Blocks water flow, outcompetes native vegetation.