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Creeping Burhead

Echinodorus cordifolius

Last reviewed: June 2026

Creeping Burhead (Echinodorus cordifolius)
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

shade

Water

high

Size

12"–48" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

MD, TX

Creeping Burhead is a wetland native that thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and shaded areas. This aquatic perennial produces white flowers from spring through late summer and works well in rain gardens or bog areas. It requires constant moisture and will not survive in typical landscape conditions without supplemental water.

In an HOA neighborhood

Creeping Burhead is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 1 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.

  • May flop without support
  • Best in less formal zones

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for various pollinators throughout the growing season. As an aquatic plant, it also provides habitat for beneficial insects and amphibians in water gardens.

Common questions

How much sun does Creeping Burhead need?
Creeping Burhead grows best in shade conditions.
When does Creeping Burhead bloom?
Creeping Burhead blooms in March, April, May, June, July, and August.
Where is Creeping Burhead native?
Creeping Burhead (Echinodorus cordifolius) is native to MD, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Creeping Burhead HOA-friendly?
Creeping Burhead is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Creeping Burhead fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.