Marine Naiad

Other Common Names: Spiny naiad

(Najas marina)

Native

Marine naiad is a submerged plant with small brittle leaves that are stiff and toothed.

Description

Marine naiad leaves are green to brown, one and a quarter inches long and about one-tenth of an inch wide. The straight leaves have toothed edges and are grouped closer together as they reach the ends of the stems.

Brownish stems branch out. Naiads are annuals; they completely die off in the winter and rely on seeds to germinate and grow the following year. Growing from seed allows for genetic diversity in changing conditions.

Naiads typically grow in clear soft water that is relatively shallow.

Location

Marine naiad can be found across the United States.

Propagation

seeds