Lake Quillwort
Isoetes lacustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
2"–8" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
CT, MA, ME, MI and 9 more states
Lake quillwort is an aquatic fern that forms small clumps of thin, grass-like fronds emerging from underwater or waterlogged soil. This unusual native plant requires consistently wet conditions and is typically found in shallow water or boggy areas. It maintains its green appearance year-round in suitable wet environments.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lake 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 aquatic or bog conditions unsuitable for typical landscaping
- Very small size makes it nearly invisible in standard plantings
- Specialized growing requirements may appear as plant failure
Wildlife value
As a fern, this plant does not produce flowers or attract pollinators, but it provides habitat for aquatic invertebrates and small amphibians in wet environments.
Common questions
- How much sun does Lake Quillwort need?
- Lake Quillwort grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Lake Quillwort bloom?
- Lake Quillwort blooms in August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Lake Quillwort native?
- Lake Quillwort (Isoetes lacustris) is native to CT, MA, ME, MI and 9 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Lake Quillwort HOA-friendly?
- Lake 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 Lake Quillwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz