Bluntleaf Waterleaf
Hydrophyllum canadense
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, GA, IA, IL and 17 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Bluntleaf waterleaf is a native woodland perennial that forms neat clumps of soft, lobed leaves. It produces clusters of small white to pale purple bell-shaped flowers in late spring and early summer before going dormant by midsummer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bluntleaf Waterleaf 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.
- Completely disappears by midsummer leaving bare ground
- Wild woodland appearance may seem unkempt
- Short bloom period limits visual impact
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beneficial flies during its bloom period. The plant provides early season nectar when few other native plants are flowering.
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 Bluntleaf Waterleaf fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.