Cabomba (Fanwort) Identification & Treatment
Scientific Name: Cabomba caroliniana Category: Submerged Tier: 2 — Regionally Significant — Common in multiple EPA ecoregions
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Identification
Cabomba has finely divided, fan-shaped submerged leaves that spread outward from the stem in opposite pairs. Leaves are very finely dissected and look like delicate fans or butterfly wings underwater. Small floating leaves (linear, not divided) may be present near the surface. Produces small white or pinkish flowers at the water surface. Key distinguishing features:
- Fan-shaped, finely divided submerged leaves in opposite pairs
- Delicate, lace-like leaf structure
- Small floating leaves near surface (different shape from submerged leaves)
- Gelatinous coating on underwater stems and leaves
Treatment
Recommended Natural Waterscapes Products:
- Sonar A.S. (fluridone) — Most effective systemic option for cabomba.
- Harvester (diquat) — Contact herbicide for spot treatment.
- Aquathol K (endothall) — Contact herbicide.
Full Profile
- Native Range: Native to southeastern US and South America
- US Distribution: Eastern US, primarily EPA ecoregions: Southeastern Plains, Atlantic Coastal Pine Barrens, Interior Plateau. Expanding as a water garden escapee. USDA Zones 5–10.
- Regulatory Status: Listed as invasive in several northeastern states. Not federally listed.
- Habitat: Ponds, lakes, slow streams. Prefers soft, acidic to neutral water.
- Reproduction: Fragmentation (very efficient — small fragments root easily) and seed.
- Ecological Benefits: In its native range, provides fish habitat and invertebrate cover. Popular aquarium plant that frequently escapes into natural waterways.
- Seasonal Behavior: Active growth spring through fall. Dies back in winter in northern areas. Semi-evergreen in the South.
Sources: Texas A&M AquaPlant – Cabomba | USDA PLANTS Database
Related Species
- Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) — Submerged, Tier 1
- Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) — Submerged, Tier 1
- Coontail (Hornwort) (Ceratophyllum demersum) — Submerged, Tier 1
- Curly-Leaf Pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) — Submerged, Tier 1
- Elodea (Common Waterweed) (Elodea canadensis) — Submerged, Tier 1
- Egeria (Brazilian Elodea) (Egeria densa) — Submerged, Tier 1
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