Eichhornia crassipes

Water hyacinth

Floating peacefully on the surface of ponds, the water hyacinth captivates with its elegant purple flowers and brilliant green foliage. This tropical aquatic plant adds a touch of color to water gardens while contributing to the natural balance of wetlands.

Visible au jardin

Our Species

Pontederiaceae

Water hyacinth

Nom scientifique :

Eichhornia crassipes

Nom vernaculaire :

Water Hyacinth

Carte d’identité
de l’espèce

Native to the Amazon basin, the water hyacinth is an aquatic plant known for its rapid growth and particularly decorative blooms. Its floating leaves and submerged roots create a habitat valued by many small aquatic organisms. In tropical botanical gardens, it is often used to beautify ponds and enhance areas dedicated to aquatic plants.

Famille :

Pontederiaceae

Origine géographique :

South America

Taille :

20 to 80cm

Floraison :

Year-round with a peak from March to November

Habitat :

Calm freshwater, ponds, pools, and lakes

Classe :

Liliopsida (Monocotyledons)

Ordre :

Commelinales

A floating plant perfectly adapted to aquatic life

The water hyacinth is easily recognized by its round, fleshy leaves supported by air-filled petioles that ensure its buoyancy. This adaptation allows it to drift freely on the water's surface without needing to be rooted in the soil.

Its flowers, grouped in erect clusters, appear for several months of the year in tropical climates. Their violet to lavender hue is enhanced by a small yellow spot on the upper petal. Highly melliferous, they attract various pollinating insects.

Like the fringed water lily (Nymphoides indica) or the sacred lotus (Nelumbo nucifera), the water hyacinth contributes to the diversity of aquatic gardens. Below the surface, its long fibrous roots provide a refuge for numerous invertebrates and contribute to the pond's ecosystem.

Découvrez nos autres espèces botaniques

Anthurium

With its large, colorful spathes and glossy foliage, the anthurium is one of the most prized tropical plants for its elegance. A common sight in many Caribbean gardens, it adds lasting touches of color throughout the year thanks to its exceptionally decorative blooms.

Découvrir l’espèce

June Plum

Prized for its crunchy, tart fruits, the ambarella is a tropical tree widely cultivated in the Caribbean. Its lush foliage, rapid growth, and abundant fruit production make it an iconic species in gardens and orchards of warm regions.

Découvrir l’espèce

Chinese Hat Plant

With its unique flowers resembling small hanging hats, the Chinese Hat Plant is a tropical shrub particularly prized for its abundant and colorful blooms. Its graceful form and vibrant flower clusters instantly catch the eye in tropical gardens.

Découvrir l’espèce