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
Hardiness: 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