1. Curly Pondweed Potamogeton crispus
Paul P. Dunay III
Keystone College
ENVT 315
Fall 2012

4. Distribution in United States and Canada

5. Introduction Native to Eurasia, Africa, Australia
Possibly introduced as an aquarium ornamental or accidentally
Introduced into U.S in mid-1800s
Noxious or prohibited weed in several areas of the USA: AL, CT, WA, VT

6. Plant Identification Potamogetonaceae
Leaves are typically finely serrated along the edges
Edges of mature leaves may be distinctly ruffled
Unique vein pattern
Inconspicuous flowers with four petal-like lobes on spikes

7. Characteristics Submerged plant species Fast growing perennial
Grows well in sandy, loamy and clay soils
Cold-tolerant evergreen and will grow through winter
Low-light adapted
Established early and either avoids competition or out-competes other macrophytes

8. Control Measures
Turions are easily transportable and can remain dormant for up to 2 years
Mechanical harvesting may be used to obtain some nuisance relief
P. crispus is sensitive to 2,4-D, especially during early spring
The herbicides fluridone and diquat have also been used

10. References USDA - http://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov
USDA Plants -
Invasive Species Compendium -