Bolander's Quillwort
Isoetes bolanderi
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
1"–8" H × 1"–4" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, FL and 8 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bolander's quillwort is a small, grass-like aquatic fern that forms tight clumps of thin, upright leaves. This uncommon native requires consistently wet or waterlogged conditions and is typically found around pond edges, wetlands, or bog gardens. It maintains its small, neat appearance year-round but needs specialized growing conditions to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bolander's Quillwort 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 wetland conditions
- Very uncommon and unfamiliar to most people
- May appear sparse or struggling without perfect conditions
Wildlife value
As a specialized aquatic plant, it provides habitat for wetland insects and small aquatic creatures. Its primary value is in supporting wetland ecosystem health rather than attracting typical garden pollinators.
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 Bolander's Quillwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.