Water Hyacinth

Waterhyacinth is an upright, herbaceous, and free-floating aquatic perennial that grows between 2 in (5 cm) and 3S ft (1 m) tall. Plants grow a dense mat of feathered, dark-colored roots as well as lightercolored stolons that produce daughter plants. Each plant consists of a cluster of basal leaves arranged spirally. In uncrowded situations, leaf stalks are spreading and have pronounced, buoyant swelling. In dense stands, plants are taller and leaf stalks grow more erect with little or no swelling. Leaf blades are rounded or kidney-shaped, waxy, leathery, and up to 6 in (15 cm) across. Flowers occur in a single spiked cluster. Each flower has six purple-blue petals, and the top petal has a bright yellow spot surrounded by darker purple. Fruits are capsules containing up to 450 small, ribbed seeds. (Description from:: EDDMaps)

Native to South America

Prevention is the highest priority for water hyacinth in Teton County. Given the proximity of other infestations and preference for tropical climates, water hyacinth is not likely to spread to the area by natural means. Do not dump aquariums, and do not stock ponds, including small koi ponds, with water hyacinth or other invasive species.