Marsh-elder
Iva annua
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
24"–72" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CO, FL and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Marsh-elder is a tall annual wildflower that produces small greenish flowers in late summer. This native plant can reach up to 6 feet tall and has a somewhat coarse, weedy appearance that's better suited for naturalized areas than formal gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Marsh-elder 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.
- Very tall and can appear weedy
- Annual growth creates gaps when plants die back
- Informal appearance not suitable for maintained landscapes
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies during the summer months. Seeds provide food for birds in fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Marsh-elder need?
- Marsh-elder grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Marsh-elder bloom?
- Marsh-elder blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Marsh-elder native?
- Marsh-elder (Iva annua) is native to AL, AR, CO, FL and 27 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Marsh-elder attract?
- Marsh-elder draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Marsh-elder HOA-friendly?
- Marsh-elder 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 Marsh-elder? 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