Interesting how some things appear attractive at first blush but are actually dangerous and destructive.

I have maintained this plant in various water containers for many years because of the beautiful flowers and great amphibian environment. Thought it was just a “water lily” until curiosity prompted a little research as to its true name. Wow, what an education!

Rather than repeating the same 411, here’s some information on Water Hyacinth, or Eichhornia crassipes, in California:

http://www.cal-ipc.org/ip/management/ipcw/pages/detailreport.cfm@usernumber=45&surveynumber=182.php

Needless to say, emptying aquarium plants (and/or animals) in natural water ways is prohibited because of the propensity for non-native species domination and ultimate destruction of the aquatic environment.

I also read Hyacinth is used in the manufacturing of wicker type furniture and as a major compost ingredient.  The reproduction rate of the plant is incredible so periodic removal is helpful in maintaining the pond.

[Stepping on a discarded plant dried in the Sun is like walking on bubble wrap due to the plant’s bulbs “popping” when compressed under foot. Kind of gross when walking in the dark and then feeling a soft “POP” under your foot …….. was that a Tarantula? Yuck!]

ANYWAY, hope you all have a fun filled Safe and Sane Fourth of July absent any negative contact with invasive non-native plants and/or animals.

My best to you and yours, Lew