Water Hyacinth bears leathery foliage that creeps across the surface of the pond. The foliage helps to provide shade and the roots provide filtration, a spawning area for the pond fish, and absorb excess nutrients from the water, helping to reduce algae. It also is an excellent water clarifier. The delicate, purple flowers have a yellow "eye" on one petal, last approximately one day, but bloom throughout the season, and add a pleasing splash of color to the pond. The flowers grow on 6-inch stems at the center of a rosette of glossy bulb-like leaves. These leaves will gather air in pockets and keep the plant afloat. Reaches height of 6-12".

Because the Water Hyacinth has a tropical nature, it will require heat and full sun to thrive and flower. Yellowish leaves are a sign of insufficient nutrients in the water; move plants with yellowing leaving to an alternate area and add plant food to their water, rotating with plants left in the pond. A vigorous reproducer, it can quickly take over the water garden. Remove excess plants to help prevent this from happening. Zones 9-11.

Approximate Purchase Size: 6" to 8"