Spatter-dock
Nuphar advena
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 24"–60" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 24 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Spatter-dock is an aquatic native perennial that grows in ponds, slow streams, and wetland edges. It produces distinctive yellow cup-shaped flowers from late spring through early fall above large heart-shaped floating leaves. This plant requires consistent standing water or very wet soil conditions to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Spatter-dock takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires pond or water feature
- Aquatic growth habit unsuitable for typical landscaping
- Can spread aggressively in water bodies
Wildlife value
The flowers attract beetles and flies for pollination, while the seeds and rhizomes 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 Spatter-dock fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.