Giant Salvinia has caused severe economic and ecological problems in many countries including New Zealand, Austrailia and South Africa. Texas is aggressively working to eradicate Giant Salvinia. Feathery roots dangle below or are rooted into the substrate. Floating Water Hyacinth has nearly circular or elliptical leaves that are up to 8 inches long. Flowers occur in spikes and are violet-blue with yellow markings.
Flowers are similar to floating water hyacinth but are often less robust and more blue in color.
Water hyacinth is often sold for use in ornamental ponds. It can also be used as a component of animal feeds and for natural agricultural fertilization. It has recently been found to absorb a variety of toxins and heavy metals and has come into use for water purification. See Also Floating Water Hyacinth Water Lettuce Pistis stratiotes Water Lettuce is also called Water Bonnet. The leaves of Water Lettuce are 4 to 8 inches in length and have a velvety surface thanks to very small, hair-like structures covering the leaf surface.