Water-parsley
Sium suave
Last reviewed: June 2026
Sium suave (Water-parsley) is a native wetland forb found across most US states that blooms white flowers from June through August. This aquatic plant thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and attracts diverse pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies.
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
12"–48" H × 8"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 43 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Water-parsley is a native wetland perennial that thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and partial sun conditions. It produces small white flower clusters during summer months and grows 1-4 feet tall with a somewhat spreading habit. This plant requires constant moisture and is best suited for rain gardens, pond edges, or areas with poor drainage.
Growing Water-parsley
Grow Water-parsley in part sun and high water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 8 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Water-parsley takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Looks wild and informal in appearance
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may appear unkempt
- Can become quite tall and sprawling
Wildlife value
The summer blooms attract various pollinators including native bees, beetles, and flies. As a native wetland species, it provides important habitat and food sources for moisture-loving insects.
Common questions
- Where does Water-parsley naturally grow?
- Sium suave is native to most US states from coast to coast, including wetland areas in Alabama, California, Minnesota, New York, and many others.
- When does Water-parsley bloom?
- Water-parsley produces white flowers during summer months from June through August.
- What growing conditions does Water-parsley need?
- This wetland plant requires consistently high moisture levels and can tolerate full sun to partial shade conditions.
- What pollinators visit Water-parsley?
- Water-parsley attracts various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies to its small white flower clusters.
- Is Water-parsley HOA-friendly?
- Water-parsley 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-parsley? 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