Water hyacinth – Eichhornia crassipes
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The map represents observations of this taxon, but it may not be used as a distribution map.
- Total squares
The map represents observations of this taxon, but it may not be used as a distribution map.
Origin and general distribution
Water hyacinths are native to the Amazon area in South America. Today, it is found on all continents in suitably warm climatic conditions. In Europe, its presence is limited to Italy, Spain and Portugal (including the Azores). The optimum temperature for growth is 28–30°C. Growth slows down as the water temperature falls below 10°C, and the species cannot tolerate water temperatures of five degrees Celsius or below for extended periods of time. Water hyacinth has been introduced as an ornamental in garden ponds and even large aquariums.
Description text authors:
Terho Hyvönen (LUKE) and Arto Kurtto (LUOMUS) – 15 March 2016 – published 18 March 2016.
The chart shows temporal distribution of the observations, which is not the same as population increase/decrease.
The following biotope data have been recorded for observations of this taxa