Largeleaf Waterleaf
Hydrophyllum macrophyllum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 8"–16" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, GA, IL and 10 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Largeleaf waterleaf is a native woodland perennial with broad, deeply lobed leaves and clusters of small white to pale purple flowers in late spring. It forms neat clumps in partial shade and goes dormant by midsummer, making it ideal for naturalizing under trees or in woodland gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Largeleaf Waterleaf takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant by midsummer leaving bare spots
- Woodland appearance may look too wild for formal landscapes
- Short bloom period followed by lengthy dormancy
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract native bees and beneficial flies during their blooming period in May and June.
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 Largeleaf Waterleaf fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.