Practical information to identify and manage non-native, invasive plants
The Quiet Invasion:A Guide to Invasive Plants of the Galveston Bay Area
Eichhornia azurea
| USDA Symbol: | EIAZ2 |
| ITIS TSN: | 42622 |
| Presence: | Future Threats |
| Habitat: | Aquatic |
| Native Range: | Mexico, Central America and South America, Jamaica |
Toxic Characteristics
This species is not known to be toxic.Geographic Distribution
Currently only reported in Puerto Rico and southern Florida.Introduction Pathways
Introduced as an aquatic ornamental to Florida in the 1980s.Specific Primary Habitats
Prefers open and slow-moving water environments. Nutrient enrichment aids in establishment.Identifying Characteristics
Similar to the common water hyacinth, but lacking bulb-like petioles. It is non-floating and its roots extend into the substrate. Leaves often project vertically out of the water and are generally tongue-shaped, with margins broadly wavy, and lateral margins raised. Leaves are also slightly smaller than those of the common water hyacinth and are 2 - 6 inches long. Flowers occur in compact clusters of 7 - 50. Petals are white to light blue; the central lobe is dark blue or purple at its base and has a central yellow triangular spot.Reproduction Characteristics
Vegetative reproduction occurs by fragmentation and sprouting of the branching stems. It is partially capable of self-fertilization, but seeds rarely germinate in North America. Flowers from June to October.Ecological, Economic, or Social Impact
Potentially forms thick mats over the water surface, shading out native vegetation and altering water chemistry.Suggested Control Methods
Avoid introducing this plant to local waterways. 2,4-D and Glyphosate herbicides are only effective on small populations. Plant harvesting machines/choppers or complete drainage is necessary for large infestations. Care should be taken to control nutrient inputs from the surrounding watershed.|
Native Species Alternatives
Below is a list of alternative plants that are native to the area:
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Lists
This species belongs to the following lists:
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Images
To view a larger version of an image, click on the thumbnail. Leaves and flower clusters of the rooted water hyacinth. Photo courtesy of California Department of Food and Agriculture Archives, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 1277126. |
 Flower and buds of the rooted water hyacinth. Photo courtesy of Kurt Stüber, Max-Planck Institute for Plant breeding Research, www.forestryimages.org; Image Number 1277128. |
 Flowers of the rooted water hyacinth. Photo courtesy of W.T. Haller, Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants http://aquat1.ifas.ufl.edu/ |
 Entire rooted water hyacinth plant from shoots to roots. Photo courtesy of W. T. Haller, Center for Aquatic and Invasive Plants http://aquat1.ifas.ufl.edu/ |
 Flower cluster and leaves of the rooted water hyacinth. Photo courtesy of the National Park Service, www.nparks.gov.sg |
 Close-up of flower cluster of the rooted water hyacinth. Photo courtesy of the National Park Service, www.nparks.gov.sg |