Blue Mud-plantain
Heteranthera limosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 16 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Blue mud-plantain is a low-growing aquatic perennial that thrives in wet conditions and produces small blue flowers from late spring through fall. This native plant forms compact clumps and requires consistently moist to wet soil, making it ideal for water gardens, pond edges, or areas with poor drainage.
In an HOA neighborhood
Blue Mud-plantain takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires specialized wet conditions that may appear problematic
- Low growth habit may look unkempt in formal settings
- Aquatic nature makes it unsuitable for typical landscaping
Wildlife value
While specific pollinator data is limited, the small blue flowers likely attract native bees and other small pollinators during its extended blooming period.
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 Blue Mud-plantain fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.