Curly waterweed

Lagarosiphon major

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Lagarosiphon major Peter Meininger.jpg

Habitat

Still or slow-flowing nutrient rich water.

Key ID features

  • Dark green in colour with many branches. 

  • Leaves grow in tight spirals around the stem. 

  • Grows up to 3m in length. 

Distribution

Widespread in England and Wales.

Impacts

Rapidly dominates a water body outcompeting native species, reducing biodiversity. Can also block intakes and reduces flood storage capacity. 

Do’s & Don’ts

  • DON’T buy from any outlets for aquariums and water gardens. Often labelled ‘oxygenating plant’- it is against the law for it to be sold.

  • DO check whether this plant is present in your pond/aquarium - it’s really a monster in disguise!

  • DO dispose of invasive non-native plants responsibly – leave to dry in a sunny area 3m away from water. Can be composted or burned (in line with local restrictions) once completely dried.

  • DON’T break the law - Be Plant Wise - don’t dump invasive non-native plants in the wild or transfer to other ponds. If you cause curly waterweed to spread you may be guilty of an offence under the Invasive Alien Species (Enforcement & Permitting) Order 2019.


More Information

For more information visit the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat website.


Possible New-comer

Curly waterweed (GBNNSS)