Water Hyacinth Eichhornia crassipes Presented By: Kaydee Oliver

Introduction  Native to Brazil  Introduced to the United States approximately1884 in New Orleans.  Free Floating Perennial  Obligate Plant  Water Hyacinths are found globally in tropical and sub-tropic climates. They are also can be found in temperate climates however they are not winter hardy.  Thrives in all types of freshwater sources.  Located on Florida’s Prohibited Aquatic Plant List.

Characteristics  Flowers: 8-15 lavender flowers form a single spike, each flower has 6 petals, the uppermost petal of each flower is slightly larger with a blue and yellow splotch in the center.  Leaves: Entire, rounded, and rosette shaped. They are 6 inches wide, waxy green, water proof, and have numerous fine veins.  Roots: Purplish to black, feathery, and submersed.

Distribution  In Arizona, Arkansas and Washington, the Water Hyacinth is believed to be "eradicated".  In New York, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Missouri, as well as farther north the Water Hyacinth can live during the summer months, however it does not survive though the winter.  Water Hyacinth has not been found in Pennsylvania.

Problems  1 acre of Water Hyacinth plants can weight up to 200 tons! In 6-18 days they can double there mat size.  Mats of these plants block air supply, reducing oxygen levels, eliminating fish and other aquatic plants and life.  Make boating and fishing impossible.  Florida spends millions each year to control the Water Hyacinth from clogging waterways.

Control  The weed weevils Neochetina bruchi (left) and Neochetina eichhorniae (right) have been found to be very effective in controlling the Water Hyacinth.  Removing with a chopping machine or another type of mechanical harvester.  Use of approved aquatic herbicides are can provide temporary relief as well.  Clean your equipment before moving from one body of water to another.  Before buying a plant for your backyard pond consider the risks of each plant you chose.

Sources USDA. USDA. 29 September September Victor Ramey, Barbara Peichel. Water Hyacinth. 1 June September 2012.