Water Lettuce
-
Scientific Name:
Pistia stratiotes Aquatic
Non-native
Description
Resembles a floating open head of lettuce. Leaves are thick, ridged, and pale green with small, thin hairs. Numerous feathery roots hang submerged beneath leaves.
Range and Habitat
Introduced to Louisiana from South America prior to the 1800s. Found throughout Louisiana in freshwater systems.
Behavior
Free-floating. Forms dense mats that make waterways impassable and crowd out native species.