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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 12°C / 53.60°F - 33°C / 91.40°F |
| Temperature | 25°C / 77.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-21 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 0-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Eichhornia crassipes, commonly known as water hyacinth, is a plant native to the American tropics but has spread to tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Classified under the family Pontederiaceae, this aquatic plant is characterized by its floating leaf rosettes, bloated leaf stalks that aid in buoyancy, light purple flowers on tall stalks, and blueish black water roots.
Aquarium Suitability
Water hyacinths are suitable for aquariums as floating plants in large open tanks with strong lighting and relatively high macronutrient concentrations. However, they are highly susceptible to frost, making them ideal for garden ponds during hot summers. They require warm, shallow water rich in nutrients and full sun exposure for optimal growth and tend to die off with the first frost.
Demands and Hardiness
Eichhornia crassipes is a fast-growing plant that thrives in high light conditions and a pH range of 5 to 8. It requires carbon dioxide levels of 0-40mg/l, a carbonate hardness of 0-21, iron levels of 0.01-0.5mg/l, nitrate levels of 10-50mg/l, phosphate levels of 0.1-3mg/l, and potassium levels of 5-30mg/l. The plant has a temperature range of 25-30°C but can tolerate temperatures between 12-33°C.
Aquascaping & Usage
Water hyacinths are commonly used as decorative floating plants in garden ponds, open tanks, and mobile containers. They add beauty to aquatic environments with their vibrant flowers and lush green foliage. Their rapid growth and ability to form large populations make them useful for providing shade and shelter for aquatic organisms.
Propagation
Propagation of Eichhornia crassipes occurs through runners, allowing the plant to reproduce and spread quickly. This reproductive method contributes to the plant's ability to colonize new habitats rapidly.
Habitat and Distribution
Originally from Brazil, water hyacinths have been introduced and naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. They thrive in diverse habitats, including heavily polluted rivers, swamps, lakes, and canals, where they can become invasive and difficult to control due to their rapid growth rate.