Ludwigia foliobracteolata

Native from southeastern Mexico through tropical South America and Trinidad, this upright wetland plant forms a herb, subshrub, or shrub reaching about 6.5 feet tall. It occurs beside ponds, swamps, rivers, and streams. Solitary yellow flowers have four or sometimes five petals. Leaf-like bracteoles develop beneath the flowers and remain prominent on the fruiting structures, helping distinguish it from related Ludwigia species. The fruits are capsules that turn from green to brown as they mature and contain many seeds. Photographed in Florida.