Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms



Waterhyacinth forms large floating mats


Waterhyacinth flower: right before blooming (A), in full bloom (B), the day after the full bloom (C).


Bulbous petioles contain air, acting as floats


Waterhyacinth inforescence




  • Scientific Name: Eichhornia crassipes (Mart.) Solms
  • Common Name: Waterhyacinth
  • Group: Monocot
  • Family: Pontederiaceae (Pickerel-weed family)
  • Wetland Indicator Category: OBL
  • Perennial
  • Growth Form: Floating
  • Grows in freshwater lakes, ponds, marshes, ditches, canals, slow-moving streams
  • Introduced/Invasive, Native to South America