Water Lobelia
Lobelia dortmanna
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CT, MA, MD, ME and 10 more states
Pollinators
bees
Water lobelia is a small aquatic perennial that grows in shallow water or boggy conditions. This compact native produces delicate spikes of small white to pale blue flowers from summer through early fall. It requires consistently wet soil or standing water to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Water Lobelia 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
- Very small and sparse appearance
- Specialized aquatic plant unsuitable for typical landscaping
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and other small pollinators during its extended summer blooming period.
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 Water Lobelia fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.