Non-Native
Hygrophila salicifolia
What is Willow-leaf Hygrophila?
Physical Characteristics
- Shrub-like
Leaves:
- Opposite
- Streaked with white
Flowers:
Fruit:
- Splits lengthwise
- Dry
- Cylindrical
- Many seeded
Seeds:
- Flat
- Lens-shaped
- Fleshy
- Hairy
Where Does it Grow?
Non-Native
Willow-leaf hygrophila can be found in tropical areas. It is widespread in southeast Asia from Japan, Viet Nam, and the Philippines. In China, it is found in several provinces south of the Yangtze river. It has been recorded from Siphandone wetlands in Lao. This species is locally common and has no known major widespread threats. Introduced populations from the aquarium trade have been discovered in TX, LA, and possibly FL.
Is it Invasive?
Willow-leaf hygrophila is locally common and has no known major widespread threats.
Pros and Cons of Willow-leaf Hygrophila
Willow-leaf hygrophilia is non-native to the United States, and tends to disrupt the ecosystem by pushing the native species out of their habitat. It has a highly invasive potential throughout the US and is commonly sold in the aquarium industry as an ornamental.
This plant is not native to North America, but has naturalized in much of the United States. While it is not illegal to possess this plant in Texas, it should not be introduced into new water bodies and should be treated with herbicide when present.