Plant Profile: Sagittaria fasciculata

Sagittaria fasciculata is a petite herbaceous plant that thrives in wetland environments. Unlike other members of the Sagittaria genus, it does not feature the characteristic arrowhead-shaped leaves. This species typically reaches a height of around 15 inches and flowers from mid-May to July. The plant is known for its edible tubers, which were a significant food source for Native Americans. Its submerged leaves are elongated and narrow, with a rounded cross-section, while the emerging leaves are flat and can be broadly ovate or lanceolate in shape.

This species is classified as endangered. Sagittaria fasciculata is primarily found in Henderson and Buncombe counties in North Carolina, as well as Greenville and Laurens counties in South Carolina. The seepage habitats that support this plant are highly vulnerable, and the remaining populations face threats from residential and industrial development, land conversion for pasture, and the encroachment of invasive species.