Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia)

One of our most common aquatic plants, arrowhead, occurs in a wide variety of wetland habitats, including rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds. This particular species, one of six known in Michigan, is our most widespread arrowhead. It is often referred to as "duck potato" or "wapato." Leaves can vary considerably in appearance. Flowers are borne in whorls on leafless stems, each bearing three small, white petals. The round tubers provide an important waterfowl food source and give this species one of its common names.