Curly Pondweed
New plants form under ice cover during late winter, making curly pondweed one of the first plants to emerge in late spring. Plant die-offs in early summer may cause a critical loss of oxygen.
Common Name: Curly pondweed
Scientific Name: Potamogeton crispus
Native Range: Europe, Africa, Australia
Background
Curly pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) is a submerged perennial that resembles many native pondweeds. Care must be taken to correctly identify this species. Rigid, reddish-green, oblong leaves have distinct, finely toothed, wavy edges. The plant’s flat, reddish-brown stem grows in water depths from 1-16 feet. Most reproduction is from winter buds, called turions.
Habitat
Curly pondweed is tolerant of low light and low water temperatures. It invades both shallow and deep water.
NYS Distribution Map
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Identification
Look for wavy, lasagna-shaped leaves that have finely serrated tooth edges. The winter buds, called turions, are small, sharp, and pinecone-shaped.
Impact
New plants form under ice cover during late winter, making curly pondweed one of the first plants to emerge in late spring. Plant die-offs in early summer may cause a critical loss of oxygen.
Prevention and Control
Control methods for curly pondweed include physical, mechanical, or chemical techniques. There are many native look-alike pondweeds. Please confirm identification before beginning any management program.
