Plant Profile: Gratiola viscidula

Hedge Hyssop, a wildflower native to the plantain family, is classified as Imperiled in North Carolina. It typically thrives along the edges of ponds, lakes, and wetlands. Due to its modest height—rarely exceeding one foot—and its preference for very wet, sometimes partially submerged environments, it can easily go unnoticed. This plant has gained popularity as an aquarium specimen, capable of remaining submerged for extended periods. Its stems and flower bracts are covered in glandular hairs, giving them a sticky or clammy texture when touched. With a multi-stemmed, compact growth habit, Hedge Hyssop forms a dense mound, producing white tubular flowers from summer into fall.

This species thrives in neutral pH environments, making it suitable for bogs, water gardens, and areas adjacent to streams and ponds. It favors partial shade and requires consistently moist soil to flourish.