Water Parsely
Oenanthe sarmentosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Oenanthe sarmentosa (Water Parsley) is a native wetland forb found in California, Oregon, and Washington that blooms from May through July. This moisture-loving plant attracts bees and flies with its small white flower clusters.
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.
Growing Water Parsely
Grow Water Parsely in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Water Parsley naturally grow?
- Water Parsley is native to the Pacific Coast states of California, Oregon, and Washington, typically growing in wetlands, marshes, and along stream banks.
- When does Oenanthe sarmentosa bloom?
- Water Parsley blooms from May through July, producing small white flowers arranged in umbrella-like clusters typical of the carrot family.
- What pollinators visit Water Parsley?
- Water Parsley attracts various bees and flies, which are drawn to its small white flowers that provide nectar and pollen during the summer months.
- What growing conditions does Water Parsley prefer?
- This wetland plant requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions and can tolerate full sun to partial shade, making it ideal for rain gardens and pond edges.
- Is Water Parsely HOA-friendly?
- Water Parsely takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Water Parsely? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz