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Invasive Species: Water Hyacinth

Invasive Species: Water Hyacinth

Water Hyacinth

(Eichhornia crassipes, synonym: Pontederia crassipes)
*Detected in Michigan*

WATCH LIST - PROHIBITED IN MICHIGAN

REPORT THIS SPECIES 

  • Contact EGLE Aquatic Invasive Species Program EGLE-WRD-AIP@Michigan.gov. If possible, please take one or more photos of the invasive species you are reporting. Also make note of the location, date and time of the observation.  This will aid in verification of your report. You may be asked to provide your name and contact information if follow-up is needed.
  • Or - use the Midwest Invasive Species Information Network (MISIN) online reporting tool.
  • Or - download the MISIN smartphone app and report from your phone.

IDENTIFICATION

  • Erect, free-floating perennial herb.
  • Short, bulbous leaf petioles.
  • Distinctive air bladders that keep leaves afloat.
  • Rounded, leathery leaves arranged in whorls of 6-10.
  • 14-day flowering cycle produced lavender flowers with central yellow fleck.

lavender colored Water Hyacinth flowers
Photo courtesy of Wilfredo Robles, Mississippi State University, Bugwood.org.

water hyacinth
Photo courtesy of Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org.

water hyacinth invasion
Photo courtesy of Chris Evans, Illinois Wildlife Action Plan, Bugwood.org.

SPECIES INFORMATION

Habitat: Mainly a tropical and sub-tropical weed growing in freshwater systems. Water hyacinth is not tolerant to temperatures below freezing for long periods of time, nor is it tolerant of high salinity water. 

Native Range: Amazon basin.

U.S. Distribution: Water hyacinth has been introduced to at least 25 states and is widespread in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas and Tennessee.

Michigan Distribution: Use the Invasive Species Watch List Viewer to find out where water hyacinth has been confirmed in Michigan and where it has been successfully eradicated.

Local Concern: This invasive species forms dense colonies in water bodies that block sunlight and crowd out native species. At optimum temperatures, it can double its biomass within a month. Dense colonization can also impede boat traffic, reduce water flow and interfere with hydroelectric power generation.

Means of Introduction/Spread: Boat traffic, flooding, water flow, human transport, aquaculture release.

MORE INFORMATION