A free-floating aquatic with glossy rounded leaves on inflated buoyant stalks and showy lavender-blue flower spikes. A declared noxious weed across much of Australia and illegal to keep in many states.
At a glance
- Plant type: Aquatic plant
- Mature size: 30 cm H × 40 cm W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: wet or boggy ground
- Frost: tender
- Maintenance: high maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Water Hyacinth
Botanically, Eichhornia crassipes is a fast-growing aquatic plant in the Pontederiaceae family. It reaches around 30 cm tall and 40 cm wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. Purple and blue flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Water Hyacinth
Water Hyacinth suits tropical, subtropical and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost tender, so protect it from hard frosts or grow it in a sheltered spot or pot.
Soil & planting
Water Hyacinth does best in clay soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Water Hyacinth is adapted to wet or boggy ground. A light spring feed is usually enough to maintain steady growth. New plantings need closer moisture checks in hot or windy weather, with watering tapered once strong new growth appears.
Pruning & care
Prune Water Hyacinth after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Expect a high maintenance care workload once it is established.
Using Water Hyacinth in the garden
Water Hyacinth earns its place for a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For easier irrigation and care, group Water Hyacinth with species that also favour wet or boggy ground and tropical climate. Leave enough room for the mature spread so neighbouring plants are not crowded out.
Good to know
Be aware it can self-seed or spread into bushland in some regions — check it is not a declared weed in your area before planting.
Buying Water Hyacinth
Plant Sale lists Water Hyacinth as potted plants. Catalogue forms are planning guidance until the Plant Sale team confirms live availability.
