Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) is one of the most effective and beautiful floating pond plants available. Its glossy, rounded leaves sit above the water surface on spongy, air-filled stems, while its trailing roots hang beneath, actively absorbing excess nutrients and helping to keep pond water clear and balanced. In summer it produces striking spikes of lavender-blue flowers with a yellow eye, making it as ornamental as it is functional. Water hyacinth needs no planting: simply float it on the pond surface in a sunny spot and it will multiply rapidly through the warmer months. An outstanding natural water purifier for any garden pond.