Water Hyacinth
Eichhornia crassipes
Originally from the Amazon basin, water hyacinth is known to be one of the fastest growing aquatic plants in the world. Spreading through both seed and horizontal stems, new plants can easily grow from an existing population or be spread to new areas via fragments. With large, waxy leaves (4-8 inches wide) and distinct purple/white flowers, water hyacinth is not too challenging to identify. That being said, escaped populations are (fortunately) limited in much of Michigan. If spotted, it should be reported immediately. 

Water hyacinth is considered a noxious weed species in more than 50 countries. It was first introduced into the United States during the 1884 Cotton States Exposition in New Orleans. The plants were given as gifts to attendees, who later took them home to add to backyard ponds. By 1900, water hyacinths had escaped cultivation and become a serious pest in many southern states (Stop Aquatic Hitchhikers).

Once it takes over an area, water hyacinth forms dense mats that completely cover a water's surface. Aquatic species below die and decay, causing a depletion in dissolved oxygen. This in turn decreases the ability for fish and other living organisms to live. 
Photo credits: Wilfredo Robles, Mississippi State University, Bugwood.org | Chris Evans, University of Illinois, bugwood.org | Barry Rice, sarracenia.com, bugwood.org 
Learn More About Water Hyacinth:
Water Hyacinth Facts
  • Water hyacinth produces thousands of seeds per year and they can remain viable for up to 30 years. 
  • Populations can double in just two weeks. 
  • Plant fragments can start entirely new populations and are moved by wind, water, and boat propellers. 
Management Options
  • Early detection is key!
  • Small populations can be removed by hand if extreme care is taken to not break fragments from the plant. These can start new populations. 
  • Herbicide treatments have been successful but assistance from professionals is required as this is an aquatic species.