Definition

1. Noun:
   • A genus of aquatic plants: "Eichhornia" is the scientific name for a genus of floating aquatic plants, commonly known as water hyacinths.
   • A specific plant type: It refers specifically to plants characterized by thick, glossy leaves and showy flowers, often considered invasive in non-native waterways.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The pond was completely covered by Eichhornia. (The pond was completely covered by water hyacinth.)
  • Scientists are studying methods to control the spread of Eichhornia. (Scientists are studying methods to control the spread of the water hyacinth genus.)

Advanced Usage

• In botanical contexts: Used precisely to refer to the genus within the family Pontederiaceae.
  • The specimen was identified as Eichhornia crassipes. (The specimen was identified as the common water hyacinth.)
• In environmental science: Often discussed in the context of invasive species management.
  • The rapid proliferation of Eichhornia can disrupt local ecosystems. (The rapid proliferation of this aquatic plant can disrupt local ecosystems.)

Variants and Related Words

• Eichhornia crassipes (n): The most common and widespread species within the genus, the common water hyacinth.
• Water hyacinth (n): The common name for plants of the genus .
• Water orchid (n): A less common synonym for water hyacinth.

Synonyms

• Water hyacinth: The most frequent common name.
• Floating water plant: A descriptive term for its growth habit.

Related Phrases

• Eichhornia infestation: A phrase used to describe a problematic overgrowth of these plants.
  • The river's navigation was hindered by an Eichhornia infestation. (The river's navigation was hindered by a dense overgrowth of water hyacinth.)

Noun

1. water hyacinth; water orchid