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 The Great Lakes region boasts a wide array of plant life --everything from rainforest to dry high savanna grasses. Inside the shoreline of some lakes, however, vegetation has become a problem in the form of rapidly growing invasive plants, like the surface-choking water hyacinth and shore-clogging papyrus.
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Papyrus (Cyperus papyrus):
 A widespread reed that flourishes in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, papyrus can reach heights of 4 ft., with large star-like blooms on the top. The strong stems contain a pith, or soft , spongy substance, that is edible. Papyrus grows in thickets (often known as "sudd") throughout the Nile Valley and along the lakes' tributaries.
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Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes):
 A free-floating water plant from South America, this rapidly reproducing species varies in height from a few inches to over three feet. Water hyacinths have blue-green leaves, thick stalks and a showy purple or lavender flower. It thrives in tropical regions and in waters that are high in nutrients. Its seeds can survive up to 30 years. These alien plants have thus far only affected Lake Victoria.
Hyacinth Photo Credit/Copyright: aquarius-systems.com
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