Water Willow

Water-willow (Justicia americana) is common along stream and lake margins. It grows to 3 feet tall and often forms dense colonies that help stabilize shorelines. The leaves are long and narrowly tapered with smooth margins and a distinctive whitish midvein. The leaves look very much like those of the willow tree. The flowers are on long stems originating from the base of the leaves. Flowers are at the end of a thick, leafless stem, 5-petaled, orchid-like, and white with purple/violet streaks on the lower petals.

 

Management Options

Mechanical Options

Water willow can be cut and removed from the pond.

Biological Options

There are no biological control options for the treatment of water willow.

Chemical Options

The active ingredients that have been successful in treating water willow include 2,4-D (X) and fluridone (X). E = excellent; G = good.

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