Floating pond plants are very useful in keeping the pond water clean and clear. These are simply pond plants that free-float and do not need to be potted. You simple toss them into the water garden where they are extremely beneficial to the pond. They shade the surface and with their roots dangling in the pond water they pull nutrients from the water essentially starving the algae.  Water Hyacinths or Water Lettuce cannot be shipped to California per the California State of Agriculture and if ordered will be substituted. Other states have restrictions on certain plants so its always a good idea to check with your department of agriculture if uncertain.