Killing off the Heart
Liz Jones
Crested Flying Heart
Latin:
NYMPHOIDES CRISTATA
Description:
•Perennial fresh water flower
Appearance/How to Identify:
•large green leaves
•purple under leaves
•five white
•fringed petals
Native Origin:
•Asia (Vietnam, Taiwan)
US location:
•shallow bodies of water, high risk in Texas
Threat
This species grows rapidly, covering the surface of bodies over water and blocking out the sun for other plants which kills off other important species of plants and aquatic animals
How was it introduced to the US?
This plant was introduced to the US originally as an ornamental plant for aquatic displays. It has spread because fragments get stuck in boats and are taken to new areas
How can we stop it?
Clean and dry boats, trailers, and equipment to prevent spread
Report through TexasInvasives.org
Crested Floating Heart
Beautiful but Deadly
Shallow Roots
Citations:
•http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry/Plant-Industry-Publications/Pest-Alerts/Nymphoides-cristata
•http://wssa.net/2013/01/scientists-recommend-banishing-dangerous-aquatic-weed-from-water-gardens/
•http://www.eddmaps.org/southeast/species/subject.cfm?sub=11616