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Water-parsley

Sium suave

Last reviewed: June 2026

Water-parsley (Sium suave)
Photo: KENPEI / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

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

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.

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.

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-parsley fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.