Water lettuce

Description:

Water lettuce or water cabbage is a floating perennial plant. It has been present in Florida since as early as 1765. This floating plant commonly forms large infestations which prevent boating, fishing and other uses of lakes and rivers. Water lettuce resembles a floating open head of lettuce. It has very thick leaves. The leaves are light dull green, are hairy, and are ridged. There are no leaf stalks. Water lettuce roots are light-colored and feathery. Its flowers are inconspicuous.

Habitat:

Water lettuce occurs in lakes, rivers and canals, occasionally forming large dense mats. Spotted at Moss Bluff Lock and Spillway, Ocklawaha, Fla.