Sporocarps are alternately arranged along the main axis developing in elongated chains among the submersed leaves. Salvinia molesta is known for its egg-shaped sporocarps that end in a slender point.  Click here for a close-up view of an opened sporocarp.

Adult leaves are broad and ovate in shape and will fold up at the midrib in response to crowded conditions.  The submersed leaf, often mistaken as roots, can grow to great lengths, aiding in the stabilization of the plant.