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Mudwort

Limosella aquatica

Last reviewed: June 2026

Mudwort (Limosella aquatica)
Photo: (c) Nina Filippova, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nina Filippova

Light

full sun

Water

high

Size

1"–4" H × 1"–3" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 12 more states

Mudwort is a tiny annual plant that forms small patches in wet, muddy areas. This diminutive native grows only 1-4 inches tall and produces small white flowers from June through September.

In an HOA neighborhood

Mudwort 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.

  • Extremely small size makes it nearly invisible
  • Requires constantly wet conditions that could cause drainage concerns
  • Annual nature means inconsistent presence year to year

Wildlife value

While specific pollinator data is limited, the small flowers likely attract tiny beneficial insects during the summer blooming period.

Common questions

How much sun does Mudwort need?
Mudwort grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Mudwort bloom?
Mudwort blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Mudwort native?
Mudwort (Limosella aquatica) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Mudwort HOA-friendly?
Mudwort 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 Mudwort? 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