European frog-bit(Hydrocharis morsus-ranae) is a free-floating annual. The heart-shaped leaves are leathery and round with undersides that may be dark purple. The white, three-petaled flowers have yellow centers and bloom in summer. The veins follow the heart-shape of the leaf, and the roots form a tangled mat below the water's surface. The leaf stem of European frog-bit lacks a midline groove which distinguishes it from its native look-alike American frog-bit, Limnobium spongia.
Distribution:
NOTE: If you receive a "sign in" message, click cancel to continue. Confirmed observations of European frog-bit submitted to the NYS Invasive Species Database. For more information, visit iMapInvasives
Habitat:
This plant grows well in quiet, open water including marshes, ditches, swamps, and sheltered coves.
Threats & Impacts:
European frog-bit has rapid vegetative spread and forms dense mats, which can limit light penetration and inhibit recreational use.
Management Techniques:
Limited information exists about control techniques for this species. Hand pulling may be suitable to control individual plants or small infestations.
