The dioecious form of Hydrilla is found in Texas. (There is a monoecious form that is believed to be native to Korea.) Hydrilla forms monospecific stands, outcompeting and replacing native submerged vegetation. Dense underwater stands raise water pH and temperature, and lower dissolved oxygen. Infestations can promote mosquito habitat. This plant has the potential to affect power generation and agricultural irrigation by blocking intakes and impeding water flow. Hydrilla was introduced by the aquarium trade.
You may not want or need to replace this invasive plant, but if you do, options are listed below.
Hydrilla is on the Texas Dept. of Agriculture’s List of Noxious Plants and on Texas Parks and Wildlife’s list of Invasive, Prohibited and Exotic species which are illegal to sell, distribute or import into Texas.
For information on how to eradicate this invasive, view our statement on herbicide use and preferred alternatives for invasive plants.
You can replace this invasive plant with native alternatives. Here are some plants that make superior replacements.
Match your location on the Texas map to the color squares on the replacement plants below to find suitable replacements for your ecoregion.
State Office Address:
Native Plant Society of Texas
PO Box 3017
Fredericksburg, TX 78624
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