Whorled Marsh Pennywort
Hydrocotyle verticillata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
2"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Whorled marsh pennywort is a low-growing native groundcover with distinctive circular leaves arranged in whorls around the stem. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in wet areas and produces small white flowers during summer months. It spreads to form dense mats in consistently moist to wet soil conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Whorled Marsh Pennywort 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.
- Requires consistently wet soil that may create drainage concerns
- Low height and spreading habit can appear uncontrolled
- Specialized marsh plant may look out of place in typical landscaping
Wildlife value
The small summer flowers attract various pollinators including bees, beetles, and flies. Dense growth provides habitat for small invertebrates in wet garden areas.
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 Whorled Marsh Pennywort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.