Hydrocleys nymphoides (Water Poppy)

Water poppy is a perennial aquatic herb of tropical American origin that spreads through stolons. Rosettes bear floating or emergent leaves with smooth, shiny blades, rounded outlines, and shallow heart-shaped bases. The central vein is noticeably swollen beneath each leaf. Flowers have three broad yellow petals, with purple filaments and yellow anthers forming a darker center. Small brown follicles develop after successful pollination. The species inhabits ponds, still water, and slow streams, where fragments of its creeping stems can establish dense mats. It is invasive in New South Wales, Australia, where dense mats can obstruct waterways. Photographed in Colombia.