Plant Profile: Pontederia cordata

Pickerelweed is a native herbaceous plant that thrives in shallow waters, reaching heights of up to 4 feet, and is prevalent throughout North Carolina. Its robust rhizomes enable it to create extensive colonies. This plant prefers freshwater environments with depths of up to 12 inches, flourishing in full sunlight and rich loamy soils. It can also withstand partial sunlight, less fertile soils, and occasional flooding of up to 20 inches. From summer to fall, it produces tall spikes adorned with lavender-blue flowers that attract a variety of pollinators, showcasing a vibrant display well above the water for an extended period.

This versatile plant is ideal for planting along bogs, ponds, or streams, and it can also be cultivated in large containers or water gardens. It is crucial to ensure that the water levels remain deeper than saturation but shallower than the leaves throughout the year.

Additionally, pickerelweed is generally resistant to pests and diseases.