American pondweed, also known as long-leaf pondweed, is a submerged aquatic plant with distinctive floating, sword-shaped leaves. It is commonly found in ponds and lakes, where its broad, floating leaves create a mat on the water’s surface while its stems and roots remain anchored below. This plant provides habitat and food for fish and wildlife, but excessive growth can hinder water circulation and recreational use. Effective management is best achieved in the early stages of development, before the formation of nutlets and seed dispersal, to prevent uncontrolled spread and maintain a balanced aquatic ecosystem.