An aquatic herb with many different names, such as Dollar Pad, Water Target,  Deer Food, Little Water Lily,  Frog Leaf,  or Fanwort,  Water Shield is a member of the Cabombaceae family. It is the only water plant that is covered by a slimy coating! This perennial is found in the Algonquin Highlands in shallow lakes, rivers and ponds, with its leaves floating from the end of long, also slimy,  purplish stalks or stems which are rooted in the bottom of its habitat. It has very long, reddish, creeping rhizomes. The leaves are 4-10 cm, oval and have the stem attached at its centre.

Emerging from the water, Water shield flowers are a dull purple-red colour with 3 petals. It sits slightly above the water surface on stalks, blooming from June to August.

This is a valuable plant for aquatic insects, fish and wildlife, both as a food source and a hiding place. It is also useful for humans in medicinal treatments, and was a food source for Native Americans.