Howell's Quillwort
Isoetes howellii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
2"–8" H × 1"–4" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
CA, ID, MT, OR and 2 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Howell's quillwort is a small, grass-like fern that forms compact clumps of thin, upright green leaves. This rare native plant stays very low to the ground and maintains its neat appearance year-round. It requires consistently moist conditions and is typically found in specialized wetland habitats.
In an HOA neighborhood
Howell'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.
- Extremely rare species inappropriate for cultivation
- Requires specialized wetland conditions
- Very small size makes it barely visible in landscape
Wildlife value
As a fern, this plant does not produce flowers or attract pollinators. It may provide minor habitat value for small invertebrates in wetland ecosystems.
Common questions
- How much sun does Howell's Quillwort need?
- Howell's Quillwort grows best in part shade conditions.
- Where is Howell's Quillwort native?
- Howell's Quillwort (Isoetes howellii) is native to CA, ID, MT, OR and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Howell's Quillwort HOA-friendly?
- Howell's Quillwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Howell's Quillwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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