Elodea

Canadian Elodea (Elodea canadensis) and Brazilian Elodea (Egeria densa) are rooted, multi-branched plants with dark green, blade-like leaves in whorls of three and finely toothed margins. The flowers of Elodea have three white petals with a waxy coating that makes them float. It has small, strap-like leaves about 1 inch long, tightly whorled around a thick stem, and is often confused with Hydrilla. Elodea forms very dense mats reaching the surface.

Elodea aquatic plant showing dense whorled leaves  

Management Options

Mechanical Options

Elodea can be controlled through cutting and raking, dyes, fertilizers, or barriers.

Information on mechanical treatment of aquatic vegetation

Biological Options

Grass carp will consume elodea and are excellent at controlling it.

Information on biological treatment of aquatic vegetation

Chemical Options

The active ingredients that have been successful in treating elodea include Diquat (E), Flumioxazin (G), and Fluridone (E). E = excellent; G = good.

Information on chemical treatment of aquatic vegetation

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