Aquatic and usually perennial, these plants produce submersed, emergent and aerial leaves. As the name suggests the leaves can be arrowhead-shaped, with two basal lobes. It is not unusual for the lobes to be missing on some leaves. Generally their petioles sheath the base of the scape. The panicles of flowers have 3 flowers in each cluster. Fruits are flat achenes, with their margins winged and papery.

We have three species and one or more is found throughout

Tuber flesh is creamy in colour; young shoots are also edible.

They may be boiled, baked or fried. Boiled arrowhead tubers sliced thin, may be served with sesame oil or butter. Or served cold with a vinaigrette as a salad (no butter).

They should not be eaten raw.