Plants seldom branched. Leaves wide and wavy with broad base that clasps the stem. Plant often branches toward tip. Leaves arranged alternately around stem, becoming more dense toward end of branches. Flower stalks, if present, protrude above water surface.
Leaves form dense clumps on branches, providing a broom-like appearance.
Flower stalks, if present, protrude above water surface. Leaves tapered to fine point with minute spines on margin of leaves in some species. Spacing between whorls of leaves highly variable. Leaves long and grass-like. Horizontal stem system connects tufts of leaves.