Southern Water-plantain
Alisma subcordatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Southern water-plantain is an aquatic perennial that thrives in wet soils and shallow water areas. It produces small white flowers in summer on tall, branching stems above broad, heart-shaped leaves. This plant requires consistently moist to wet conditions and is best suited for pond edges, rain gardens, or boggy areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Southern Water-plantain 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 specialized wet conditions that look unfinished in typical landscaping
- Aquatic appearance may seem out of place in standard residential settings
- Limited to very specific water garden or pond applications
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and flies for pollination. Seeds provide food for waterfowl and other birds that frequent wetland areas.
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 Southern Water-plantain fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.