Leaves and Stems merged in common structure typically called a frond or thallus, though neither term is correct by strict botanical definition. Two budding pouches are locaed on either side of the basal end. Multiple fronds are joined by long, attenuated stalks to form star shaped floating colonies at, or just below, the surface of the water. Roots often absent or a single root. Flower of two stamens and a single pistel in a membranous cuplike spathe, hidden away inside the budding pouches.
Flowers uncommon, occuring in somewhat smaller fronds with toothed margins.
Because Duckweed is largely made up of metabolically active cells with very little structural fiber, the tissue contains twice the protein, fat, nitrogen, and phosphorus of other vascular plants. Each frond absorbs nutrients through the whole plant and not through a central root system, directly assimilating organic molecules such as simple carbohydrates and various amino acids. With the entire body of the duckweed composed of non-structural, metabolically active tissue, most photosynthesis is devoted to the production of protein and nucleic acids, making them very high in nutrional value. Identifiable as a Duckweed by its diminutive size and free-floating habit. The chains and clusters formed are unique among North American duckweeds.