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This is a common aquatic plant found in the lowlands up to mid hills. Other than in Sri Lanka this plant is native to Africa, Asia and Australia.
The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (National Red List 2012).
This species is always found in stagnant pools, tanks or slow moving streams. Unless where the water level has gone down the leaves are always submerged except for the flowers.
The leaves are used as a vegetable and are also used in Ayurveda, Siddha and traditional Chinese medicine to treat Asthma, Hemorrhoids and Caner. These plants produce fruits, which are edible and sort after by children.
This species is found in most fresh water villus and other water bodies Wilpattu but seldom seen as it is submerged.