Chara

Also known as Muskgrass or Stonewort, this algae resembles a vascular plant. Found in hard water, chara gives the appearance of having leaves, stems, and roots.

Plants can quickly grow 1-3′ tall and develop a rough scaled coating of lime. Color varies from bright to burnt green or nearly white from hard water deposits. Chara is identifiable by its musky, skunk-like or garlic odor when crushed.

Mineral deposits on plants and hard water often require higher product rates. Chara is generally not a serious nuisance except in shallower bodies of water. Mature plants may leave mineral skeletons behind for several weeks after treatment.