SafePlants

Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes)

The water hyacinth, scientifically known as Eichhornia crassipes, is a free-floating aquatic plant celebrated and reviled for its unique properties. Native to the Amazon basin, it has spread to many warm regions worldwide.

Considerations for Pets

• This is a floating plant with clusters of leaves that have spongy stalks.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Eichhornia crassipes
• Common Names: Water Hyacinth, Common Water Hyacinth
• Family: Pontederiaceae
• Genus: Eichhornia Kunth
• Synonyms: Includes variations like Eichhornia crassipes major.
• Related Species: Eichhornia paniculata (Brazilian Water Hyacinth), Eichhornia paradoxa, Eichhornia azurea (Rooted Water Hyacinth), Eichhornia diversifolia (Variableleaf Water Hyacinth)

Distribution and Habitat

• Originally from the Amazon River basin in Brazil.
• Naturalized in many warm parts of the world.
• Found in locations like the Pantanal wetlands in Southwestern Brazil.
• Reported in places such as Manatee County, Florida.

Ecological Role

• Often considered an invasive species due to its rapid growth and spread.
• Can pose serious problems in waterways alongside other aquatic plants like Water Lettuce and Water Fern.

Morphological Characteristics

• Free-floating aquatic flowering plant.
• Grows throughout the year.
• Can reach up to 3 feet in height.
• Has clusters of leaves with spongy stalks.

Genetic Information

• Undergoes a shift from cross-fertilization to predominant self-fertilization, a common evolutionary transition.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The Brazilian weevil has been studied as a potential biological control agent.

Additional Information

• Eichhornia paniculata (Brazilian Water Hyacinth) is noted as being smaller and less invasive than E. crassipes.

Quirky Facts

• Water hyacinth has been called the "Cinderella of the plant kingdom".