This emergent aquatic occurs widely in wetlands across eastern states except in the upper midwest, but it is most common on the coastal plains (FNA 22, W). The species contains two polyploids (2n = 88, 112), but segregates are not recognized. In Ky. it is largely restricted to lowlands on the Mississippi Embayment and along the lower Ohio Rv. Its range is somewhat similar to that of Pontederia cordata, both being typical of relatively extensive deep swamps, perhaps with less base-rich conditions than prevail in much of Kentucky. It is virtually absent from the central Ohio Valley,but there have been recent repor heret (including iNaturalist.org) that suggest spread, perhaps enhanced by plantings.