Great Waterleaf

(Hydrophyllum appendiculatum)

Great Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum appendiculatum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Hydrophyllum appendiculatum, commonly known as Great Waterleaf, is a deciduous biennial herb native to rich, moist woodlands and floodplains in the Central and Eastern United States. It typically grows to a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and can spread up to 3 feet (0.9 meters) wide. The plant has a clumping form with coarsely toothed leaves and produces clusters of small, bell-shaped purple flowers in late spring to early summer, which are attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Great Waterleaf is valued for its foliage and flowers, which add texture and color to shaded garden areas. It is often used in native plant gardens, woodland gardens, and as a ground cover in shaded borders. It thrives in part shade to full shade and prefers consistently moist, well-drained soils rich in organic matter. While it is not drought-tolerant, it does not require excessive watering once established. Great Waterleaf is relatively low-maintenance, but it can self-seed prolifically, which may be considered undesirable in some settings.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-2 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Part Shade, Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers, Water Garden

Natural Habitat

native to rich, moist woodlands and floodplains in the Central and Eastern United States

Other Names

Common Names: Appendage Waterleaf, Appendaged Waterleaf, Hydrophylle Appendiculé

Scientific Names: , Hydrophyllum appendiculatum, Decemium appendiculatum, Hydrophyllum appendiculatum f. album, Decemium hirtum, Hydrophyllum hispidum, Nemophila paniculata,

GBIF Accepted Name: Hydrophyllum appendiculatum Michx.