Pickerel weed has beautiful violet-blue flower spikes during summer months.  This is an excellent species for ponds because it is attractive, slow growing, and prefers shallow water.  It is often available from plant suppliers, and can be collected in the wild with permission of the landowner.

A grass-like group of plant species with leafless stems and a fruiting spike at the tip.  Attractive and usually no more than 2 feet in height, spike rushes are a good species for pond banks.  They will not overrun a pond and generally do not interfere with fishing.

This species belongs to a group of primarily tropical and subtropical plants, and is the only species of the group found this far north.  It is a beautiful plant with attractive purple flowers.  It grows slowly and is easy to control.  It can reach 6 feet in height, so should not be planted on banks where fishing occurs.

There are a number arrowhead species (Sagittaria) and they can vary considerably in leaf shape.  These species are ideal for fishing ponds because they grow in very shallow water, are not aggressive, and have attractive leaves and flowers.  Particularly good for use in areas where erosion can be a problem.

Possible the most well-known of aquatic plants, water lilies are beautiful and can provide excellent fish habitat -- when controlled!  Planted as tubers, the lily will grow slowly but will spread.  Once established, stands should be trimmed annually by removing new stems at the root.  To reduce spreading, these plants can be placed in submerged pots and all non-potted growth should be removed immediately.