‘Underwater plant that can grow over a foot a day’ NYT Mini Crossword clue answer and hints

There are many things associated with life under the sea: Sea life, sunken ships, getting close to sharks via a flimsy metal cage (which baffles me to this day), and plants. We’re looking at a particular “Underwater plant that can grow over a foot a day” in today’s NYT Mini Crossword.

‘Underwater plant that can grow over a foot a day’ NYT Mini clue hints

Eight across clue. Image via Dot Esports

• Hint one: It’s almost a cry for help.
• Hint two: “E” is the only vowel.
• Hint there: Can be used as a code for El Paso International Airport.
• Hint four: Ends with “P.”

These clues will soon become water under the bridge as I reveal the answer.