in shallow,cold,gently moving,fresh water in lakes,reservoirs,streams,rivers,and on damp soil .It is often found in gently flowing streams, or "areas of running water adjacent to springs and riverbanks or on wet soil". It has less tolerance for stagnant or very fast moving water .The substrate can be gravel , sand ,silt,or clay,but not on acid or alkaline peats. The soil pH range for... is between 4.3 and 8.3 .It is locally abundant in nutrient rich water and prefer abundant sunlight .It also has a high tolerance for chloride in the water. Sources show varying account of the temperature range fir the N.... suggests it prefers at least 18°.,while the Purdue University's Horticulture Department say "the reported life zone of water cress is 6-27 . Additionally, the species is known for its ability to overwinter .Although any exposed part of the plant is susceptible to frost damage,it will survive as long as the water does not freeze and grows thoughout the winter