Contents
Description
Pontederiaceae is a family of aquatic plants that includes six genera and around 33 species. Commonly known as water hyacinths, these plants are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. They are characterized by their floating leaves and showy flowers that range in color from pale blue to purple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Commelinales |
| Family | Pontederiaceae |
| Genus | Eichhornia, Heteranthera, Hydrothrix, Monochoria, Pontederia, Scholleropsis |
Appearance
Water hyacinths have rounded, glossy, and green leaves that float on the water surface. The leaves are attached to a spongy bulb that helps the plant float. Water hyacinths have erect stems that can grow up to 30 cm tall and produce spikes of showy flowers that bloom in summer or fall. The flowers have six petals, and their color varies depending on the species, ranging from white to lavender-blue.
Care Guide
Water hyacinths require a lot of water and sunlight to thrive. They grow best in still waters such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. Here are some care tips for growing water hyacinths:
- Water: Water hyacinths should be submerged in at least 6 inches of water.
- Fertilization: Water hyacinths do not require fertilization, but adding a slow-release fertilizer can help promote blooming.
- Soil: Water hyacinths do not require soil, but they can be anchored in a mesh basket filled with aquatic planting soil.
- Sunlight: Water hyacinths require full sun to grow properly.
- Hardiness Zones: Water hyacinths are hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Water hyacinths are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Water hyacinth weevils: These insects feed on the leaves and stems of water hyacinths, causing extensive damage.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes yellow spots on the leaves that can eventually lead to defoliation.
- Rust: This fungal disease causes orange-brown spots on the leaves and can eventually kill the plant.
Habitat
Water hyacinths are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia. They are commonly found in still waters such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. Water hyacinths can grow in both freshwater and brackish water and can tolerate a wide range of water temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Are water hyacinths invasive?
A: Yes, water hyacinths can be invasive. They can grow rapidly and form dense mats that can block sunlight and oxygen from reaching other aquatic plants and animals.
Q: Can water hyacinths be grown in a container?
A: Yes, water hyacinths can be grown in a container filled with aquatic planting soil and submerged in at least 6 inches of water.
Q: How often should water hyacinths be fertilized?
A: Water hyacinths do not require frequent fertilization, but adding a slow-release fertilizer once or twice a year can help promote blooming.
Q: How do you control water hyacinths?
A: To control water hyacinths, you can manually remove them from the water or use herbicides approved for aquatic use. However, it is important to note that herbicides can harm other aquatic plants and animals.
Related Plants
- Water lilies (Nymphaeaceae)
- Lotus (Nelumbonaceae)
- Cattails (Typhaceae)
References
- “Pontederiaceae.” Encyclopedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/plant/Pontederiaceae.
- “Water Hyacinth.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287175.
- “Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes).” Plant Conservation Alliance, https://www.nps.gov/plants/alien/fact/eicr1.htm.
