Potamogeton epihydrus, commonly known as Ribbonleaf Pondweed, is a perennial aquatic herb native to a variety of freshwater habitats across North America, including the northeastern United States, southeastern Canada, and the Pacific seaboard. It is typically found in shallow, slow-moving or still waters such as ponds, lakes, and streams, often in oligotrophic conditions where the water is low in nutrients. Ribbonleaf Pondweed can grow in both soft and hard water environments, adapting to a range of aquatic conditions.

Ribbonleaf Pondweed is characterized by its narrow, ribbon-like submerged leaves, which are an adaptation to the aquatic environment. During the flowering season, which occurs in the summer, it produces small, inconspicuous greenish spikes of flowers that emerge above the water surface. While not showy, these flowers are important for the plant’s reproduction. In cultivation, Ribbonleaf Pondweed is valued for its ability to oxygenate water and provide habitat for aquatic wildlife. It is used in water gardens, ponds, and for natural water treatment systems. This plant prefers full sun to part shade and requires an aquatic setting to thrive. It is generally low-maintenance once established in a suitable water body. However, care should be taken as it can become overly abundant in ideal conditions, potentially outcompeting other aquatic plants.CC BY-SA 4.0