Which native plant is identified by its thick creeping roots, typically grows to about 3 ft in height, and features violet-blue flowers?

The native plant characterized by thick creeping roots, a height of about 3 feet, and violet-blue flowers is indeed pickerelweed. Pickerelweed (Pontederia cordata) is an aquatic plant commonly found in wetland habitats, where it thrives in shallow water. Its distinguishing features include elongated green leaves that emerge from the water and beautiful spikes of violet-blue flowers that attract various pollinators, contributing to the biodiversity of its ecosystem.

In addition to its aesthetic appeal, pickerelweed plays a significant role in stabilizing the shorelines and providing habitat for wildlife. The thick creeping roots allow it to spread efficiently across aquatic environments, making it effective for naturalizing areas and improving water quality through nutrient uptake. This plant's structure and growth habits are essential for maintaining the health of aquatic ecosystems, and it can often be seen blooming during the warmer months, adding vibrant color to the waterways it inhabits.