Plant, Tree & Shrub Library

Other Names:  Pickerelweed

Description:

A vigorously growing aquatic plant producing blue-violet flowers with gold spots; an excellent addition to a water feature garden; considered highly invasive in warmer climates

Ornamental Features

Water Hyacinth features showy sky blue orchid-like flowers with violet overtones and gold spots rising above the foliage from early spring to early fall. Its attractive glossy round leaves emerge chartreuse in spring, turning green in color the rest of the year.

Landscape Attributes

Water Hyacinth is an herbaceous evergreen perennial with a mounded form. Its wonderfully bold, coarse texture can be very effective in a balanced garden composition.

This is a high maintenance plant that will require regular care and upkeep, and should not require much pruning, except when necessary, such as to remove dieback. It is a good choice for attracting bees to your yard. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Invasive

Water Hyacinth is ideally suited for growing in a pond, water garden or patio water container, and is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Water Gardens

Planting & Growing

Water Hyacinth will grow to be only 6 inches tall at maturity extending to 8 inches tall with the flowers, with a spread of 24 inches. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 20 years. As an evegreen perennial, this plant will typically keep its form and foliage year-round.

This plant should only be grown in full sunlight. As an aquatic plant, it requires a suitable water garden environment and will benefit from special planting and ongoing care practices; consult one of our in-store experts for further details and instructions. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America.