Echinodorus cordifolius (L.) Griseb. - Creeping Burrhead

Flowering – May – July.

Habitat – Marshes, swamps, shallow ponds.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This species can be found scattered throughout Alabama but is most common in the southernmost and northernmost counties. The plant can be identified by its cordate leaves and arching to repent inflorescences. The leaves of this genus have characteristic leaf venation. The ultimate leaf veins are oriented perpendicular to the midrib and main lateral veins.

The genus name Echinodorus derives from the Greek “echin(o)” meaning “a hedgehog, a sea-urchin, spiny” and “doro” meaning “a hide, skin, a gift” referring to the ovary, which is typically covered in beaked achenes.

The species epithet cordifolius derives from the Latin “cord(i)” meaning “the heart” and “foli” meaning “a leaf” referring to the heart-shaped leaves.