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Vallisneria australis

Eel-weed

Submerged perennial herb rooting at leaf nodes. Plants male or female.

Additional information

  • SynonymVallisneria americana var. americana, Vallisneria spiralis
  • FamilyHydrocharitaceae
  • StoreyLower storey
  • Sizesubmerged x 30 cm
  • Plant groupingAquatic & Semi aquatic
  • LeavesTufts of strap-like submerged or floating leaves either all basal or scattered along the stem, 15-30 cm long, 5-9-veined, margins with tiny teeth towards the tip.
  • Flower colourPink, white
  • Flowering timeNovember to March
  • FlowersFlowers minute. Male flowers enclosed within a shortly stalked bract to 20 mm long; flowerhead breaks off and floats before pollen released. Single female flower enclosed in a bract on a very long, coiled stalk, opening on the water surface.
  • Bird attractingNo
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatYes
  • Growing conditionsFreshwater lakes. Full sun, semi shade. Restricted to 1 known site just within the Shire.
  • Garden usePlant in ponds and dams to provide habitat for fish and other water fauna.
  • Commercially availableWholesale only - order in advance
  • Conservation statusSignificant within the Shire. Known from the Yarra Flats area.
Photographer/s: Marilyn Bull ©

Plant Communities

  • 47 Open Water - Reservoirs, lakes, etc (EVC 718)
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