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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.

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 Mudwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.