Ludwigia decurrens
USDA, NRCS. 2018. The PLANTS Database (http://plants.usda.gov, 28 March 2018). National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
Illustration: USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database / USDA NRCS. Wetland flora: Field office illustrated guide to plant species. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
What is Wingleaf Primrose?
Physical Characteristics
Leaves:
- Sword-shaped or elliptical
- 0.78-6.3 inches long
- 0.05-1.38 inches wide
- 4 sepals
- Sepals 0.28-0.39 inches long
Flowers:
- Petals 0.31-0.47 inches long
- 8 stamen
Fruit:
- Dry
- 0.39-0.78 inches long
- 0.13-0.17 inches thick
- 4 sharp corners
- Seeds about 0.02 inches long
Stem:
- Up to 6 feet tall
- 4-winged
Where Does it Grow?
Wingleaf primrose can be found in swamps, marshes, and other wet places.
Pros and Cons of Wingleaf Primrose
Ducks and other waterfowl will consume the seeds of water primrose. Submerged portions of all aquatic plants provide habitats for many micro and macro invertebrates. These invertebrates in turn are used as food by fish and other wildlife species (e.g. amphibians, reptiles, ducks, etc). After aquatic plants die, their decomposition by bacteria and fungi provides food (called “detritus”) for many aquatic invertebrates.