Vallisneria americana (American Eelgrass or Water Celery) is a fully aquatic, ribbon-leaved perennial native to Texas and much of North America. Common in slow-moving lakes, rivers, and streams, it thrives submerged in up to 6 feet of water. This plant spreads by underwater stolons and grows in thick clusters that provide cover and food for fish, turtles, and waterfowl. Its long, strap-like leaves can float in shallow water, and small white flowers reach the surface on coiled stalks. Often used in aquariums, it also functions as a natural oxygenator and habitat enhancer in ponds and water gardens.

Scientific Name: Vallisneria americana

Origin: Texas and North America

Native Habitat: Lakes, rivers, slow-moving streams (rare in East TX, present in Edwards Plateau)

Height: Submerged leaves up to 6 feet

Spread: Variable (spreading by stolons)

Light: Full Sun to Part Shade

Water: Fully aquatic, 6–72" depth

USDA Zones: 4–11

Bloom: April to September

Fun Fact: After pollination, flowers are pulled back underwater in a spiral!

Ecological Role: Food source for turtles, habitat for aquatic species