Floating-leaved, aquatic rhizomatous, perennial, herb. Fl. yellow, Dec. Swamps & rivers.
General Biology. Life form. Perennial. Reproduction. The plant has vertical knobbly rhizomes which take root in the substrate and produce new horizontal stems (stolons). If these stolons break, they can re-establish elsewhere.. Fire response. Aquatic species, therefore not affected by fire..
Notes. Aquatic perennial, with emergent leaves and flowers. Leaves are waxy, elliptical and become erect when crowded. Flowers are yellow. Underwater rhizomes produce white horizontal stems (stolons) that produce new plants at the nodes. New plants forming at the nodes can easily detach and establish elsewhere..
Additional information. Origin. Native to southern USA and northern Mexico.. History of use/introduction. Extensively used as an aquatic ornamental..
Suggested method of management and control. Water lily can be manually cut and removed, but it is difficult to control as it can re-establish from seeds and rhizomes. Apply glyphosate or aquatic approved herbicide twice per year, treatment during late summer/ autumn when water levels are lowest increases efficiency. Read the manufacturers' labels and material safety data sheets before using herbicides. For further information consult the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority to determine the status of permits for your situation or state.