Stem: Up to 2 m long, slender, and sometimes covered with gelatinous slime. 

Flower: Approximately 1-2 cm across with 3 white petals and 3 similar looking sepals. The 3 petals are yellow near the base. The yellow color directs insect pollinators to the nectaries. Flower stalks originate at the base of the upper leaves.

Fruit: 2-4 leathery pods per flower; each 2-3 cm long and 1 mm wide, usually containing 3 seeds each.

Root: Long and thin. Plants usually rooted in the sediments, but can continue to grow if uprooted.

Propagation: Seeds, rhizomes, and stem fragments.

Importance of plant: When introduced to water outside its native southeastern United States its dense growth can reach nuisance proportions. It is even known as a nuisance plant within its native range.

Distribution: Primarily eastern U.S., but has been found in southwestern Washington and in Oregon coastal lakes. Probably introduced to the Northwest by improper disposal of aquarium plants.

Habitat: Favors ponds, lakes, and quiet streams with low pH. Commonly roots in 1-3 m of water. 

May be confused with: Other submersed plants with finely divided leaves such as white water-buttercup (Ranunculas sp.), which has alternate leaves; water-marigold (Megalodonta beckii) which has leaves on short stalks; coontails (Ceratophyllum), which lack roots and have whorled leaves; or the water-milfoils (Myriophyllum), which have whorled, feather-shaped leaves.

Photographs: Closeup of Cabomba caroliniana plants

Line Drawings: Cabomba caroliniana