Vernal Water-starwort
Callitriche palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
1"–6" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 29 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Vernal water-starwort is a tiny aquatic annual that forms small rosettes of narrow leaves in shallow water or consistently wet soil. This diminutive plant produces inconspicuous flowers from April through June and typically grows only 1-6 inches tall with a modest spread.
In an HOA neighborhood
Vernal Water-starwort 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 specialized wet conditions that are impractical for typical landscaping
- Very small size makes it essentially invisible in standard plantings
- Annual lifespan means inconsistent presence year to year
Wildlife value
While specific pollinator information is limited, this aquatic plant likely provides habitat for small aquatic insects and amphibians in water garden settings.
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 Vernal Water-starwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.