Lizard's-tail
Saururus cernuus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lizard's-tail is a native perennial that thrives in moist, shady conditions with distinctive white, curved flower spikes that bloom through summer. This clumping plant produces heart-shaped leaves and works well in rain gardens or consistently wet areas where many other plants struggle.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lizard's-tail 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.
- Requires consistently wet soil that's unusual in typical landscaping
- Informal wetland appearance may look out of place in manicured settings
- Can spread aggressively in ideal conditions
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract native bees and beetles with their accessible nectar and pollen. The plant also provides habitat for moisture-loving insects in its preferred 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 Lizard's-tail fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.