Cutleaf Water-Milfoil
Myriophyllum pinnatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 27 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Myriophyllum pinnatum is an aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial with finely divided, feathery foliage that grows in wet conditions. This native water milfoil produces small flowers during summer months and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions. It typically forms spreading colonies in marshes, pond edges, and other wetland areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cutleaf Water-Milfoil 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 wet conditions that may appear unkempt
- Spreading growth habit can look uncontrolled
- Aquatic nature unsuitable for typical landscaping
Wildlife value
While pollinator data is limited, the flowers likely attract small flies and other aquatic insects. The dense foliage provides shelter for amphibians and aquatic wildlife in wetland settings.
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 Cutleaf Water-Milfoil fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.