Water Parsely
Oenanthe sarmentosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Water parsley is a moisture-loving native perennial that thrives in wet soils and boggy areas. It produces delicate white flower clusters from late spring through summer and can spread to form colonies in suitable conditions. This plant goes dormant in winter, dying back to the ground before regrowing in spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Water Parsely 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.
- Looks weedy and informal when growing
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
- Spreading habit can appear unkempt
Wildlife value
The umbrella-shaped flower clusters attract various pollinators including native bees and beneficial flies during its long blooming period from May through July.
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 Parsely fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.