Slender-leaf Naiad
Najas minor
Last reviewed: June 2026
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
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.
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 Slender-leaf Naiad fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.