Crested Floating Heart
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Scientific Name:
Nymphoides cristata Aquatic
Non-native
Description
Small heart-shaped floating leaves. Roots grow into soil below the water surface, up to 10 feet. Small, white, five-petaled flower in the middle. A ruffle in the middle of each petal distinguishes crested floating heart from Louisiana's native Nymphoides, the banana lily.
Range and Habitat
Native to southern Asia and India. First reported in Louisiana in 2012. Found in the Amite River Basin and Caddo Lake.
Behavior
Quickly covers the water surface with overlapping leaves. Creates a canopy mat that shades out submerged vegetation below. Can temporarily live unrooted and free-floating.