Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: waterpoppie, water poppy

Family: Alismataceae (Water-plantain)

Distribution: Central and South America

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

Black list: Listed NEMBA Category 1 Invasive - Must be destroyed/removed by law.

Comments: The water poppy has a tendency to block waterways which results in the disturbance of trade and recreational activities. It covers the water surface, resulting in the death of organisms in the water. This leads to low quality drinking water and poses health problems. It also reduces sunlight for other aquatic plants.