Water Willow
Justicia americana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Justicia americana (Water Willow) is a native aquatic perennial that blooms white flowers from March through November in wetland areas across Texas and much of North America.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Water Willow as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 22 more states
Pollinators
butterflies
Before you buy
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Water Willow is a native perennial that thrives in moist soils and produces small white or pale purple flowers from spring through fall. This compact plant forms neat clumps and works well in areas with consistent moisture or near water features.
Growing Water Willow
Grow Water Willow in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 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 Willow is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The long blooming season provides nectar for butterflies and other pollinators throughout most of the growing season. The dense growth habit also offers shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Water Willow bloom?
- Justicia americana blooms from March through November, producing small white to pale purple flowers in dense spikes above the water surface.
- What growing conditions does Water Willow prefer?
- Water Willow thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions along stream banks, pond edges, and shallow water areas. It tolerates seasonal flooding and requires consistently moist to wet soils.
- What pollinators visit Water Willow?
- Butterflies are primary pollinators of Justicia americana, along with various native bees and other beneficial insects that visit the nectar-rich flowers.
- Where is Water Willow native?
- Justicia americana is native to much of eastern and central North America, including Texas, where it grows naturally in aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats.
- Is Water Willow toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Water Willow as toxic to livestock.
- Is Water Willow HOA-friendly?
- Water Willow is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Willow? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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