Trapa japonica is an
annual that grows in colonies in ponds or marshes. Leaves floating
on the water surfaces are 3-6cm in length and width, in an overall
diamond shape, with glossy surfaces, hairs on the backsides, and
petioles. The middle parts of the petioles swell in a spindle way
and play the role of bladders. Flowers, white, measure about 1cm in
diameter and occasionally tinge light red, with four- petals,
sepals, and stamens. Bloom time: June-October. |