Water Hyacinth
Eichhornia crassipes
Washington State Classification
Monitor List
This plant is on the monitor list - it is not a listed noxious weed in Washington.
Quick Reference
Identification
Growth Habit
This floating aquatic plant can grow up to 3 feet above the water surface. Its population can double in size every week.
Leaves
Spoon shaped, with the side attached to the plant being bulbous with air
Flowers
Spikes of many 6-petalled lavender to light pink-purple
Fruit & Seeds
Small, rounded sunflower seed shaped, with light ridges running lenghtwise
Impact
This plant is on the monitor list - it is not a listed noxious weed in Washington. Please contact its sponsor Wesley Glisson to report locations or for more information.
Ecology & Spread
Habitat
Escapes from aquariums and ponds, into natural watercourses
Spread Mechanisms
Reproduction
One of the fastest growing plants, it spreads vegetatively with stolons and rhizomes, as well as by seeds that can stay viable for almost 30 years
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