Perennial aquatic herb, rhizomatous, without tubers or bulbs. Leaves erect, spongy. Inflorescence a spike, without bracts. Flowers bisexual. Tepals 2 [previously interpreted as perianth apparently absent but having 2 persistent bracts per flower, e.g. Aston 2011]. Stamens 4–6 in 2 series, free, persistent. Carpels usually 4, sometimes 2 or 3, united ventrally and closely appressed along whole length; central axis absent; ovule apical and pendulous, orthotropous; style short and thick. Fruiting carpels 1–4 fertile, somewhat spongy, remaining united and falling together or tardily separating at maturity, indehiscent.
Home