Marsh Cress
Rorippa palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Marsh cress is a small annual wildflower that thrives in wet soils and produces tiny white flowers from late spring through summer. This native plant typically grows in marshy areas and along stream banks, forming low clumps of serrated green leaves. It completes its full life cycle in one growing season and may self-seed in favorable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Marsh Cress takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Appears weedy and informal
- Dies back completely as annual
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may look unkempt
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, beetles, and flies throughout the long blooming season. Seeds may provide food for small birds and waterfowl.
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 Marsh Cress fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.