Water Whorl-grass
Catabrosa aquatica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, AZ, CO, IA and 12 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Water whorl-grass is a low-growing native grass that thrives in consistently moist to wet soils. This perennial forms compact clumps and produces delicate flower clusters from late spring through summer. It naturally occurs in wetlands, pond edges, and other waterlogged areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Water Whorl-grass 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 consistently wet conditions that may create drainage issues
- Has a wild, unmaintained appearance typical of wetland plants
- Not suitable for typical residential landscaping conditions
Wildlife value
This grass provides habitat and food for waterfowl and supports various aquatic insects. The seeds are eaten by ducks and other water birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Water Whorl-grass need?
- Water Whorl-grass grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Water Whorl-grass bloom?
- Water Whorl-grass blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Water Whorl-grass native?
- Water Whorl-grass (Catabrosa aquatica) is native to AR, AZ, CO, IA and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Water Whorl-grass HOA-friendly?
- Water Whorl-grass 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 Whorl-grass? 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