riverweed
plant
Also known as: Podostemum ceratophyllum
Quick Summary
Riverweed refers to plants belonging to the genus Podostemon. These plants are part of the Podostemaceae family, which are aquatic and often resemble mosses or algae. They typically grow on rocks in fast-flowing rivers and waterfalls, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions.12
A notable example is Podostemum ceratophyllum, found in North American streams. These plants have unique life cycles, flowering only when exposed to air due to water level changes. Their seeds are sticky, aiding in dispersal by birds to new habitats.2
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