Mudbabies
Echinodorus tenellus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
2"–6" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
N/A
Native to
FL
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mudbabies is a tiny native grass that forms dense, low mats of bright green foliage. This diminutive plant stays under 6 inches tall and spreads slowly to create a carpet-like groundcover in consistently moist areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mudbabies takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may create drainage concerns
- Very small scale makes it appear weedy in formal landscapes
- Name 'mudbabies' could raise HOA concerns
Wildlife value
While this plant provides habitat for small wetland creatures and insects, it has limited direct pollinator value due to inconspicuous flowers.
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 Mudbabies fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.