Plant of the Month: August, 1999

by Russell Stevens

Creeping Water Primrose
Ludwigia peploides

Characteristics: Creeping water primrose is a native, warm-season aquatic plant. It can take root in water up to 18 inches deep. It often forms dense mats. Creeping water primrose occurs in the shallow areas of ponds, oxbow lakes, streams, lakes and springs. The yellow primrose-like flowers appear from May through October. The leaves are alternate and may range in shape from oval to long and narrow.

Area of Importance: Creeping water primrose is common throughout Oklahoma and Texas.

Attributes: Creeping water primrose can provide suitable fish cover. The seeds from the long cylindrical capsules are occasionally eaten by ducks. White-tailed deer have been observed browsing on the plant's foliage. It is a popular aquarium plant, propagated by cuttings.

Problems: Creeping water primrose can pose a problem to those wishing to fish their ponds. This plant's ability to form dense mats that may spread 15 to 20 feet from the shore can cause problems with casting and fish retrieval.

I.D. Tip: Look for a floating plant with oval or narrow leaves and yellow flowers from May through October in shallow water. Another distinctive feature of this plant is its "breathing" roots. These are spongy, floating structures that apparently absorb atmospheric gases. Creeping water primrose may sometimes have reddish foliage.

Hundreds of plants are identified in the Noble Foundation Plant Image Gallery.