Plant Profile: Hydrophyllum virginianum

Eastern Waterleaf is a perennial herb belonging to the borage family, indigenous to the eastern United States. It thrives in the Piedmont region and mountainous areas of North Carolina, typically in moist to wet forest environments. This plant can reach heights of 1 to 2 feet and propagates through rhizomes and seeds, often forming extensive colonies. Its blooming period spans from early spring to June, showcasing clusters of small, bell-shaped flowers that attract bees. The young leaves exhibit a distinctive mottled white pattern, which fades in older leaves.

This species favors rich, moist, well-drained soil and thrives in conditions ranging from partial to full shade. Eastern Waterleaf serves as an excellent low-maintenance ground cover in shaded woodland areas or along the edges of ponds and streams. Occasionally, its foliage may be browsed by deer.