How much sun does Slender-leaf Naiad need?

Slender-leaf Naiad grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Slender-leaf Naiad bloom?

Slender-leaf Naiad blooms in July, August, and September.

Where is Slender-leaf Naiad native?

Slender-leaf Naiad (Najas minor) is native to AL, CA, DE, FL and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Slender-leaf Naiad toxic to livestock?

The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Slender-leaf Naiad as toxic to livestock.

Is Slender-leaf Naiad HOA-friendly?

Slender-leaf Naiad takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Slender-leaf Naiad

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Najas minor

Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Slender-leaf Naiad as toxic to livestock.

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

4"–24" H × 4"–24" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, CA, DE, FL and 23 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

South Central Plains

Slender-leaf naiad is a submerged aquatic plant that grows entirely underwater in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. This annual plant has thin, narrow leaves and produces small inconspicuous flowers during summer months.

In an HOA neighborhood

Slender-leaf Naiad takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Requires permanent standing water
Not suitable for typical landscaping
May be considered pond weed

Wildlife value

This aquatic plant provides habitat and food for waterfowl, fish, and aquatic invertebrates. It helps oxygenate water and provides cover for small fish and amphibians.

Common questions

How much sun does Slender-leaf Naiad need?: Slender-leaf Naiad grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Slender-leaf Naiad bloom?: Slender-leaf Naiad blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Slender-leaf Naiad native?: Slender-leaf Naiad (Najas minor) is native to AL, CA, DE, FL and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Slender-leaf Naiad toxic to livestock?: The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Slender-leaf Naiad as toxic to livestock.
Is Slender-leaf Naiad HOA-friendly?: Slender-leaf Naiad 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 Slender-leaf Naiad? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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