Rattlebox
Ludwigia alternifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ludwigia alternifolia is a native wetland forb blooming yellow flowers from June through August across eastern and central United States. This seedbox thrives in sunny, moist conditions and attracts bees and beetles.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 29 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rattlebox is a native perennial wildflower that produces small yellow flowers throughout summer. It grows in an upright form with alternate leaves and thrives in sunny locations with moderate moisture.
Growing Rattlebox
Grow Rattlebox in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rattlebox 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.
- Common name 'Rattlebox' sounds undesirable
- Wildflower appearance may seem weedy to neighbors
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare patches
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract native bees and beetles for pollination. The plant provides habitat and food sources for various beneficial insects.
Common questions
- When does Ludwigia alternifolia bloom?
- Ludwigia alternifolia blooms from June through August, producing small yellow flowers in the leaf axils.
- What pollinators visit Ludwigia alternifolia?
- Bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Ludwigia alternifolia, attracted to its small yellow flowers.
- Where is Ludwigia alternifolia native?
- Ludwigia alternifolia is native to most eastern and central states from Maine to Florida and west to Texas, Kansas, and Iowa.
- What growing conditions does Ludwigia alternifolia prefer?
- This plant thrives in full sun to partial sun with medium to high moisture levels, typically found in wetlands, pond margins, and ditches.
- Is Rattlebox HOA-friendly?
- Rattlebox 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 Rattlebox? 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