American Marshpennywort
Hydrocotyle americana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
2"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, CT, DE, IN and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
American marshpennywort is a low-growing native groundcover with distinctive round, penny-shaped leaves on delicate stems. This moisture-loving plant thrives in wet areas and produces tiny white flowers in summer. It spreads slowly to form colonies in consistently moist to wet soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Marshpennywort takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet soil that may appear swampy
- Very informal appearance with sprawling growth habit
- May die back completely in winter leaving bare patches
Wildlife value
The small summer flowers attract various small pollinators including bees and flies. Its low growth habit can provide cover for small wildlife in wet garden areas.
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.
Does American Marshpennywort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.