Hawaiian Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia Crassipes) Live Plant The leaves are oval to elliptical, thick, up to 6 in. (15 cm) wide and waxy with spongy petioles. Leaves curve inward at the edges. The very showy blue-purple flowers are born on upright spikes. Each flower has six petals with the uppermost having a yellow patch. This plant reproduces chiefly by vegetative means. Can be planted in home pond for decorative purposes!