Schreber'S Watershield
Brasenia schreberi
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–24" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CA, CT and 35 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Water shield is an aquatic perennial with floating, oval leaves that create an elegant carpet on water surfaces. This native plant produces small purple flowers in summer and requires permanent water features like ponds or water gardens to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Schreber'S Watershield 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.
- Requires permanent water feature
- Not suitable for traditional landscaping
- May be viewed as pond maintenance issue
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract beetles and flies for pollination. The floating leaves provide habitat and shelter for aquatic 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 Schreber'S Watershield fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.