Floating-leaf Pondweed
Potamogeton natans
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Floating-leaf Pondweed as toxic to livestock.
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Floating-leaf pondweed is an aquatic perennial that grows in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It produces floating oval leaves on the water surface and small spikes of flowers above water during summer months. This plant requires permanent standing water to survive and establish.
In an HOA neighborhood
Floating-leaf Pondweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires water feature or pond
- Aquatic plant unsuitable for typical landscaping
- May appear unkempt without proper water management
Wildlife value
Provides habitat and food for waterfowl, fish, and aquatic invertebrates. The seeds are eaten by ducks and other waterbirds, while the submerged portions offer shelter for fish and amphibians.
Common questions
- How much sun does Floating-leaf Pondweed need?
- Floating-leaf Pondweed grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Floating-leaf Pondweed bloom?
- Floating-leaf Pondweed blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Floating-leaf Pondweed native?
- Floating-leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton natans) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Floating-leaf Pondweed toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Floating-leaf Pondweed as toxic to livestock.
- Is Floating-leaf Pondweed HOA-friendly?
- Floating-leaf Pondweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Floating-leaf Pondweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz