Hobbies And Interests
American Lotus
American lotus plants are edible. They tend to gather in clusters and can be found on land and in the water. On land, Their leaves have a wax-like hydrophobic quality that causes water to pool and bead along the surface of the leaves. According to an article by Loyola University of New Orleans, the water that pools into lotus leaves is safe for drinking. American lotus plants also produce pretty, pleasant scented white and yellow blossoms.
White Water Lily
Like the American lotus, white water lilies can be distinguished from other types of plants by their pad-like leaves and pleasant smelling white flowers. They are found all over Pennsylvania and live in groups in ponds with little or no flowing water. Because they are attractive plants with pleasant smells, white water lilies have been shipped to other countries for use in decorative ponds and landscaping. White water lilies, also known as fragrant water lilies, provide food for Pennsylvania deer and waterfowl.
Yellow Pond Lily
Yellow pond lilies are found in ponds, lakes and streams. They have a perennial root structure and long stems that connect the roots beneath the water to the lily pad leaves on top of the water. Yellow pond lilies, also known as cow lilies or spattererdock, provide plenty of food and shelter for fish. The yellow blossoms poke several inches over the surface of the lily pad on thick stems.
Watershield
Watershield plants, or dollar bonnets, are characterized by their green, oval-shaped leaves that rest on pond surfaces. They have long, purple stems and are commonly found in water that is 5 to 6 feet deep. They grow small, reddish-purple flowers. Like the American lotus, watershields have a coating on the stem to protect themselves from hungry animals. Many people consider watershields to be pest species. Although they provide shelter for Pennsylvania fish, it is easy for a fisherman to accidentally tangle a line in the plants.