Perfoliate Pondweed
Potamogeton perfoliatus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO, CT, DE, FL and 14 more states
Perfoliate pondweed is an aquatic plant that grows completely submerged in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It has distinctive clasping leaves that wrap around the stem and produces small flower spikes that emerge above the water surface in summer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Perfoliate Pondweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
- Requires permanent standing water
- Not suitable for typical residential landscaping
- Only appropriate for water features or ponds
Wildlife value
This aquatic plant provides important habitat for waterfowl, fish, and aquatic invertebrates. The seeds are eaten by ducks and other water birds, while the submerged foliage offers shelter for fish and amphibians.
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 Perfoliate Pondweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.