Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner - Richard D. Gaskalla, Director

Water Hyacinth

Permit requirements for cultivation

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia azurea) is listed both as a Federal noxious weed and a Florida Department of Environmental Protection Class I prohibited aquatic plant.

As provided for in Florida Statutes Chapter 581.145, aquatic plant nurseries may apply for a special permit to possess water hyacinth plants for the purpose of export outside of the United States only.

Steps in obtaining a State permit:

  1. You must be registered as a nursery with the Division of Plant Industry.
  2. You must apply for a collection permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Bureau of Invasive Plant Management.
  3. Submit DACS-08031 Compliance Agreement for Water Hyacinth to the Division of Plant Industry.

Note: If you plan to export water hyacinth from a U.S. port outside of Florida you must obtain a Federal permit for interstate movement.