Skip to main content

American Featherfoil

Hottonia inflata

Last reviewed: June 2026

American Featherfoil (Hottonia inflata)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA NRCS. 1995. Northeast wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. Northeast National Technical Center, Chester. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

6"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

South Central Plains

American featherfoil is an aquatic annual with delicate, feathery foliage and small white flowers that bloom from May through July. This water-loving plant typically grows 6-24 inches tall and requires consistently moist to wet conditions to thrive. It's best suited for water gardens, bog areas, or consistently wet soil locations.

In an HOA neighborhood

American Featherfoil takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Requires specialized wet conditions that appear unkempt in typical landscapes
  • Annual lifespan means gaps and replanting needs
  • Aquatic nature limits placement to water features only

Wildlife value

While specific pollinator data is limited, the small flowers likely attract various small pollinators during its spring and summer bloom period. As an aquatic plant, it may also provide habitat for beneficial insects in water garden settings.

Common questions

How much sun does American Featherfoil need?
American Featherfoil grows best in part sun conditions.
When does American Featherfoil bloom?
American Featherfoil blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is American Featherfoil native?
American Featherfoil (Hottonia inflata) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is American Featherfoil HOA-friendly?
American Featherfoil takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow American Featherfoil? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

Add this plant to your garden
iPhone appAndroid app

Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz