Marsh-pepper Smartweed
Persicaria hydropiper
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
NJ
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Marsh-pepper smartweed is a compact annual herb that thrives in moist, shaded areas. It produces small spikes of tiny flowers from summer through early fall and has a neat, upright growth habit. This native plant is well-suited for rain gardens and other wet areas in the landscape.
In an HOA neighborhood
Marsh-pepper Smartweed 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.
- Name includes 'weed' which creates negative perception
- Annual lifecycle means gaps in coverage
- Requires consistently moist conditions that may appear unkempt
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract bees and flies for pollination. Seeds provide food for waterfowl and other birds in late fall.
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-pepper Smartweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.