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Description
Eichhornia Crassipes, commonly known as water hyacinth, is a free-floating aquatic plant that is native to South America but has spread to many parts of the world due to its beauty and adaptability. It is a member of the Pontederiaceae family and is often considered a weed due to its invasive nature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Pontederiaceae |
| Genus | Eichhornia |
Appearance
Water hyacinth has striking green leaves that are glossy and rounded, shaped like an inverted egg, and can grow up to 12 inches in diameter. The plant has a fibrous root system that hangs in the water, and a thin stem that can grow up to 3 feet in length. The flower spike is about 5-15 cm long and has around 8-15 flowers, with a beautiful lavender or purple color.
Care Guide
Water hyacinth is a hardy plant that requires minimal care once established. Here’s how to care for Eichhornia Crassipes:
Water: Water hyacinth thrives in water, and it requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure that the water temperature is between 60-75°F, and the water pH is between 6.0-7.5.
Fertilization: Water hyacinth does not require any fertilization. However, if you want to promote fast growth, you can use a balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio.
Soil: Water hyacinth does not require soil as it is a free-floating aquatic plant. It grows in water and absorbs nutrients from the water through its roots.
Sunlight: Water hyacinth requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow healthy and produce flowers. Ensure that it is not shaded by other plants or structures.
Hardiness Zones: Water hyacinth grows in hardiness zones 9-11 and is frost intolerant. It cannot survive in temperatures below 50°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Water hyacinth is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, some of the common pests and diseases that can affect it include:
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Mosquitoes: Water hyacinth can act as a breeding ground for mosquitoes, which can cause diseases such as dengue fever and malaria. Use mosquito repellents or biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis to control them.
Fungal infections: Fungal infections such as brown spot and root rot can affect water hyacinth, especially in humid conditions. Ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and that there is good water circulation to prevent fungal infections.
Habitat
Water hyacinth grows in freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and canals. It is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world as it can reproduce rapidly and form dense mats on the water surface, which can block sunlight and reduce oxygen levels in the water.
Question and Answer
Q: Can water hyacinth grow in saltwater?
A: No, water hyacinth cannot grow in saltwater. It requires freshwater to survive.
Q: Is water hyacinth edible?
A: Yes, water hyacinth is edible and is consumed in some parts of the world. However, it should be cooked thoroughly before consumption as it can harbor harmful bacteria.
Q: How fast does water hyacinth grow?
A: Water hyacinth can grow up to 2 inches per day in optimal conditions.
Q: How can I control water hyacinth in my pond?
A: You can control water hyacinth by manually removing it from the pond, using herbicides or biological controls such as weevils that feed on the plant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to water hyacinth:
- Floating Heart
- Floating Bladderwort
- Water Lettuce
- Frogbit
- Duckweed
References
- “Water Hyacinth.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277821&isprofile=0&. Accessed 28 May 2021.
- “Eichhornia Crassipes.” University of Florida Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants, plants.ifas.ufl.edu/plant-directory/eichhornia-crassipes/. Accessed 28 May 2021.
- “Water Hyacinth: Management and Removal.” United States Department of Agriculture, www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detailfull/national/plantsanimals/invasive/?cid=stelprdb1047184. Accessed 28 May 2021.
