Water
hyacinth
Water hyacinths are beautiful, free-floating perennial plants that grow in ponds, streams and waterways. Though native to South America, they have invaded water bodies in Asia and Africa and are considered a problematic species as they can cause blockages and limit flood control, boat traffic and even kill fish.
However, this aquatic weed isn’t all bad.
The fibres from the stems of water hyacinths can be used as a raw material and blended with polyester to make clothing and home furnishings turning this troublesome weed into a useful fabric. Being that they are almost 60% cellulose they must undergo a number of treatments, including boiling, to become a usable fibre which we then utilize in some of our product offerings.