Submerged leaves long and narrow or absent. Flower stalks if present, protrude above water surface. Floating leaves oval in shape, submerged leaves large, wavy, recurved. 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.