Potamogeton robbinsii, commonly known as Robbins’ pondweed, is a perennial aquatic herb native to North America, specifically thriving in the still or slow-moving waters of lakes, ponds, and rivers. It is often found in freshwater environments that can range from clear to turbid and from oligotrophic to eutrophic conditions. This species prefers soft, muddy substrates where it can root effectively. Robbins’ pondweed can grow in water depths from shallow to relatively deep, adapting to a variety of aquatic habitats.

Robbins’ pondweed is characterized by its elongated, linear leaves that are densely packed along the stem, providing a lush underwater foliage that is beneficial for aquatic ecosystems. The leaves are stiff with minutely serrated margins, and the plant produces inflorescences with one to twenty-six straight peduncles, each bearing a spike of flowers. The flowers are small and not particularly showy, blooming from August to September. While not a traditional ornamental plant, Robbins’ pondweed plays a crucial role in aquatic environments by oxygenating the water and providing habitat for fish and invertebrates. It is also used in water gardens and for natural water filtration in constructed wetlands. In cultivation, it requires an aquatic setting with full sun to part shade and can tolerate a range of water conditions, from clear to turbid. There are no popular garden cultivars of this species, as it is primarily valued for its ecological functions rather than ornamental qualities. Potential problems include susceptibility to water pollution and displacement by invasive aquatic species.CC BY-SA 4.0