Fanwort
Fanwort can form extremely dense stands and clog waterways stifling water flow and impairing recreational activities.
Common Name: Fanwort
Scientific Name: Cabomba caroliniana
Native Range: Southern US
Background
Fanwort (Cabomba caroliniana) is a submerged perennial native to the southeastern United States and parts of South America. It typically grows in 3-10 feet (1-3m) of water and prefers acidic lakes, ponds and quiet streams. At high densities it forms extremely dense stands, clogging water flow and impairing recreational activities. The opposite leaves are fan-like and are attached to the stem on petioles. Small white flowers bloom in late summer. Reproduction and local spread can occur through short rhizomes and seeds. In late summer the plant becomes fragile and breaks apart very easily, facilitating long distance spread within a waterbody.
Habitat:
Native to the southern United States, and a popular aquarium plant, fanwort is regionally invasive and found in 3-10 feet of water in acidic lakes, ponds, and quiet streams.
NYS Distribution Map
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Identification
The leaves are fan-like, grow opposite along the stem, and are attached to the stem on petioles. Small white flowers bloom in late summer.
Impact
Fanwort can form extremely dense stands and clog waterways stifling water flow and impairing recreational activities.
