Description
Yellow Floating Heart is native to Europe and Asia and was introduced into Canada and the United States as an ornamental plant. Since being introduced it has spread to many states through both intentional and unintentional methods.
Was first observed in Oklahoma in 1947 in Lake Carl Blackwell.
Impacts
Yellow Floating Heart can create dense mats that can compete and shade out native aquatic plants, as well as decrease oxygen levels that are important for fish populations. These dense mats can impede boating, fishing, and swimming activities. New populations of Yellow Floating Heart can be established by plant fragments that are carried by boat, trailer, and other gear.
Identification Keys
- Leaves are on stalks and floating on the water’s surface, circular or heart-shaped, frequently purplish underneath
- Flowers are stalked and are solitary or in clusters of up to 5, bright yellow with 5 petals, located above the surface of the water
- Dense mats that cover entire waterways from the water floor to the surface
How To Observe
Please fill out the form at wildlifedepartment.com/fishing/ans or contact the Wildlife Department at (918) 200-4815 if you think you have discovered an invasive species.
