Hydrophyllum virginianum

Hydrophyllum virginianum, commonly known as Virginia waterleaf, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the Boraginaceae family. Native to eastern North America, it thrives in moist woodlands, along streams, and in other damp areas. The plant can grow up to 60 cm tall and has a spreading habit with multiple stems emerging from the base. Its leaves are deeply lobed with toothed edges and possess a distinctive water droplet shape, which is the source of its common name. The flowers are small, either white or pinkish, with five petals arranged in clusters at the top of each stem. Virginia waterleaf serves as an important food source for various pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. It also boasts medicinal properties, containing compounds traditionally used to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory problems, skin irritations, and fever. Overall, Hydrophyllum virginianum is a visually appealing native wildflower that enhances the beauty of natural areas. It also provides significant ecological benefits, such as supporting pollinator habitats and offering medicinal properties.

🎭 Watery, deciduous, evanescent

Characteristics

Plant Type

Herb

Life Cycle

Perennial

Genus

Hydrophyllum

Family

Boraginaceae

Hardiness Zone

4-8

Mature Height

30 cm to 61 cm

Mature Spread

30 cm to 40 cm

Leaf Color

Green, White, Variegated

Leaf Type

Deciduous

Flower Color

White, Purple, Lavender

Flower Size

2.54 cm

Bloom Time

Late spring, Early summer

Planting Time

Autumn

Harvest Time

Early summer, Mid summer

Tags (5)

Common Names (7)