American Eelgrass
Vallisneria americana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Vallisneria americana is a submerged aquatic plant native to eastern and central United States that blooms March through November. This American Eelgrass forms underwater meadows in freshwater lakes and rivers.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag American Eelgrass as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
72"–48" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
CT, DE, IA, IL and 28 more states
American Eelgrass is an aquatic perennial that grows submerged in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. This native Texas plant forms underwater meadows with long, ribbon-like leaves that can reach up to 6 feet in length. It requires permanent standing water and is not suitable for typical landscape beds.
Growing American Eelgrass
Grow American Eelgrass in full sun and high water. Mature plants reach 72 to 48 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Eelgrass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 1 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- May flop without support
- Best in less formal zones
Wildlife value
This aquatic plant provides critical habitat for fish, waterfowl, and aquatic invertebrates. It offers spawning areas for fish and food for ducks and other water birds.
Common questions
- Where does Vallisneria americana naturally grow?
- American Eelgrass is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from Maine south to South Carolina and west to states like Minnesota, Iowa, and Texas.
- When does American Eelgrass bloom?
- Vallisneria americana has an extended blooming period from March through November, producing small inconspicuous flowers underwater.
- What type of habitat does Vallisneria americana prefer?
- This aquatic plant grows completely submerged in freshwater environments including lakes, ponds, slow-moving rivers, and streams with high water levels year-round.
- How does American Eelgrass reproduce?
- Vallisneria americana reproduces both through underwater pollination and vegetatively through runners that spread across lake and river bottoms to form dense colonies.
- Is American Eelgrass toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag American Eelgrass as toxic to livestock.
- Is American Eelgrass HOA-friendly?
- American Eelgrass is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does American Eelgrass fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.