Aggressive colonizing aquatic plant with large and distinctive, striking pale yellow summer flowers that last for a few days, opening and closing each day. Flowers are fragrant, containing numerous petals surrounding a central receptavle that resembles a showerhead and becomes a unique seed pod that can be used in dried arrangements. Waxy blue-green leaves shed water and can be very large, flat and saucer-shaped if on the surface of the water or shaped like inverted parasols if held above. Utilized by a number of pollinators, including specialist bees. Roots, shoots, and seeds are edible and were and are utilized by Native Americans and other people. Note: This resource on this edible plant is intended as general information only. As with any foods, there is a potential for allergic reactions when consuming native edibles. Always seek the advice of a health professional with any questions about touching or eating any plant matter.