<p>A worldwide invasive aquatic macrophyte, water hyacinth (WH) (currently known as <i>Pontederia crassipes</i>), is attributed with considerable environmental, economic, and social impacts, as well as rapid growth. The literature on WH documented to date is reviewed in this scientometric and literary review, giving prominence to both the crop’s dual significance as a material with multiple utility values and the environmental hazards associated with it. This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis aimed at identifying existing research gaps in the use of this plant species. The analysis reveals a comparatively few studies addressing its application in wastewater treatment. The plant exhibits its remarkable efficiency for environmental remediation, particularly in wastewater treatment for the uptake of pollutants like heavy metals, dyes, and nutrients, etc. The plant also consists of flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins, which significantly contribute to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and various other pharmaceutical applications. It has diverse applications across other sectors, including bioplastics, bioenergy, biofertilizers, animal feed, and environmental remediation, with a particular emphasis on wastewater treatment. To inform future policy and research development, this effort provides a comprehensive view of environmental consequences and innovative utilisation of water hyacinth by analysing trends in research and establishing areas of information gaps.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>