CAES IAPP has found a large population of water hyacinth (
Eichornia crassipes) growing in a public pond in Newington. This plant is commonly sold for home water gardens. It is not banned in Connecticut (
Public Act 04-203) because it is not known to overwinter. There is a possibility this Newington population has overwintered and CAES IAPP will be checking for regrowth next summer. Please do not release water hyacinth into lakes and ponds. If you see this plant in our water bodies contact Greg Bugbee (203) 974-8512 or
gregory.bugbee@ct.gov.
CAES IAPP has found a plant called "Parrot's Feather" is being sold locally for water gardens. The scientific name on the label is
Myriophyllum propium. Unfortunately, no plant by the name of
Myriophyllum propium exists in the scientific literature. This plant resembles an invasive plant, called "Parrot Feather" (
Myriophyllum aquaticum), that is currently banned in Connecticut by
Public Act 04-203. CAES IAPP has performed molecular testing on the plant and found it
not to be
M. aquaticum. We could not, however, find a match with any other plant and the true identity of
M. propium remains unresolved. Until we know more about this plant, WE STRONGLY SUGGEST THIS PLANT NOT BE PURCHASED as it is listed as hardy to Connecticut and could become invasive. If you have already purchased this plant or would like further information contact Greg Bugbee (203) 974-8512 or
gregory.bugbee@ct.gov.
