Spatterdock

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Spatterdock (Nuphar luteum), also known as yellow cow-lily or yellow lily, is a rooted, floating-leaved plant similar to other water lilies. Leaves are oval or heart-shaped, 8 to 16 inches long and 9 to 10 inches wide. Leaves can be floating, emergent, or submerged. Flowers are nearly spherical, with bright yellow petals surrounded by six to nine green sepals. The yellow to green fruit is urn-shaped, with a flat top.

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Spatterdock reproduces by seed germination or by long-spreading rhizomes or "runners." It is commonly found along lake margins but may intrude into deeper water. This plant is an important host for the common bonnet worm, a preferred food for bluegills and redear sunfish. However, when it has spread extensively throughout small ponds, control measures may become necessary.

Special care was taken to make certain that all herbicide treatments are registered with the Environmental Protection Agency for use in the manner described. Registrations of specific practices are often changed or deleted; therefore, treatments suggested in this information sheet may not remain current indefinitely. Read and observe the manufacturer's label to prevent misuse of a herbicide. It is not intended or proposed that usage of any given practice suggested in this information sheet be in violation with existing registration or manufacturer's label.

If you fail to carefully read and follow suggested treatments, you could cause extensive damage to the environment, crops, livestock or humans.