Water Celery

(Vallisneria americana) also known as eel-grass has long ribbon-like leaves that emerge in clusters. Leaves have a prominent central stripe and leave tips tend to float gracefully at the water’s surface. In the fall, a vegetative portion of the rhizome will break free and float to other locations. Water Celery is  considered one of the best all natural waterfowl foods. The entire plant is relished by waterfowl, especially canvasbacks. Eel-grass beds serve as an important food source for sea ducks, marsh birds, and shore birds. Fish utilize water celery for cover.