Pontederia cordata

Pickerel Weed

Long heart-shaped leaves. The spike of deep blue flowers bloom in succession from the bottom up, prolonging the flowering period for several days. An emergent aquatic with leaves and flowers above water and portions of the stem under water, it is found typically in shallow, quiet water. Excellent for absorbing nutrients from water and improving water clarity. This is a common species for bio-purification systems. The seeds can be eaten like nuts and the young leaf-stalks cooked as greens or raw as salad greens.

  • Height: 18" – 24"
  • Width: 18" – 24"
  • Soil Conditions: Moist
  • Flower Color: Blue
  • Bloom Time: June, July, August, September, October
  • Hardiness Zone: 3 To 10
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  • Plant Characteristics

  • Attributes

    • Emergent
  • Attracts Wildlife

    • Attracts Wildlife
    • Attracts Butterflies
    • Attracts Pollinators
  • Plant Habit

    • Mound
  • Light Conditions

    • Sun to Part Shade
  • Native Plant Community

    • Wetland
  • Flower Color

    • Blue
  • Flower Hue

    • Medium
  • Flower Type

    • Spike
  • Flower Height

    • 18" to 24"
  • Foliage Color

    • Green
  • Leaf Texture

    • Coarse
  • Flower Form

    • Single
  • Flower Size

    • 3" to 6"
  • Soil Moisture

    • Moist
  • Growth Rate

    • Average
  • Origin

    • Greater Midwest