Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) Eurasian watermilfoil. Robert Johnson, Cornell University. Ruthanna Hawkins, Cayuga Lake Watershed Network. Used with permission. Eurasian Watermilfoil Drawing, University of Florida, Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants Line Drawing DVD Master. Used with permission. Native to Europe/Asia Reported in North America in late 1800s Plant Characteristics Submersed rooted perennial plant that forms dense mats on the surface Can grow up to 20 feet long Feathery, blunted-ended leaves, less than 2 inches long in whorls of 3 to 6 with about 14 to 20 pairs of thread-like leaflets Leaves fall limp when removed from the water Has green or reddish brown to purple branching steams and the shoots near the surface are reddish brown. Has small reddish flowers raised above the water on a spike that often blooms July to August Reproduces from plant fragments Thrives after curly pondweed dies back Inhabits lakes and ponds, fresh and salty water, up to 30 feet deep Inhibits swimming, boating, and water recreation Eurasian Watermilfoil Map, USGS, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Back Page updated on August 10, 2005.