Pickerel-weed
Pontederia cordata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–48" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pickerel-weed is an aquatic perennial that produces tall spikes of bright blue flowers from summer through early fall. This wetland plant thrives in shallow water or consistently wet soil and forms attractive clumps with heart-shaped leaves.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pickerel-weed 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 standing water or bog conditions
- May appear unkempt in typical yard settings
- Limited to specialized wetland gardens
Wildlife value
The blue flower spikes attract bees and butterflies throughout the summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for waterfowl and other wetland wildlife.
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 Pickerel-weed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.