Yellow Pond Lily

Description:

Also known as Spatterdock or Cow-lily. The flower center includes large, bright yellow disk-like stigma surrounded by yellow or red-tinged stamens (often rising above the water). Leaves are heart shaped.

Habitat:

Spotted on the west side of Lake Fenwick where the lake is shallow. The lily pads nearly blanket that portion of the lake seen in pic 3. This species is found in the Pacific Northwest from southern British Columbia to northern California.

Notes:

Rhizome is medicinal, seeds were a food staple of various native groups. Leaves and rootstocks have been used for ulcerous skin conditions and swelling. The rootstock infusion is used as a traditional gargle for mouth, sore throats and douche for vaginal inflammation. The rootstock is prepared from two tablespoon chopped rhizome with one cup boiling water. (Wikipedia).