Arrowhead Identification & Treatment
Scientific Name: Sagittaria spp. (S. latifolia most common) Category: Emergent Tier: 3 — Localized — Native, beneficial species
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Identification
Arrowhead has distinctive arrow-shaped leaves on long stalks, with three-petaled white flowers arranged in whorls on a central stalk. Plants grow 1–4 feet tall in shallow water. The plant produces edible tubers (historically called "duck potatoes"). Key distinguishing features:
- Distinctly arrow-shaped leaves (two basal lobes)
- White 3-petaled flowers in whorls
- Grows in shallow water, 1–4 feet tall
- Produces potato-like tubers
Commonly confused with: Pickerelweed (heart/lance-shaped leaves, blue flowers), Elephant Ear (much larger, no arrow shape)
Treatment
Arrowhead is a valuable native species for wildlife. Selective thinning only when dense stands impede access.
- Glyphosate 5.4 — Foliar application to emergent foliage.
- Clearcast (imazamox) — Systemic option.
- Manual thinning — Preferred for small areas.
Full Profile
- Native Range: North America
- US Distribution: All 48 contiguous states. USDA Zones 3–10.
- Regulatory Status: Not regulated (native).
- Habitat: Shallow margins of ponds, lakes, marshes, and streams.
- Reproduction: Rhizomes, tubers, and seed.
- Ecological Benefits: High value. Tubers are an important food source for waterfowl (especially ducks). Provides cover for fish and amphibians. Used in wetland restoration projects.
Sources: Texas A&M AquaPlant | USDA PLANTS Database
Related Species
- Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) — Emergent, Tier 3
- Elephant Ear (Colocasia esculenta) — Emergent, Tier 3
- Bulrush (Schoenoplectus spp.) — Emergent, Tier 3
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