The plant commonly known as Lizard's Tail derives its name from the shape of its flowers and subsequent fruit. It thrives in swampy areas and shallow waters, making it suitable for planting along pond edges or in containers submerged in water. For optimal growth, use containers ranging from 2 to 5 gallons. Over time, this plant can develop extensive colonies and can be propagated through seeds or by dividing its roots. Its flowers, leaves, and roots emit a pleasant aroma reminiscent of sassafras or citrus. This species is classified as an emergent wetland plant.
Regarding pests and diseases, Lizard's Tail is generally resilient, with few significant insect threats or disease problems reported.
Long, narrow racemes opposite a leaf of nodding 4-6" (they can get as long as 12") spikes. These flowers' tips droop. The white flowers are on the small side, but they are fragrant and a bit showy. In North Carolina, the flowers are available from May to September.
Green and looks like a wart. In North Carolina, the fruits are available from August to November.
Saururus cernuus: Fruit Type
Achene
Aggregate
Berry
Capsule
Caryopsis
Drupe
Follicle
Legume
Nut
Pome
Samara
Schizocarp
Siliqua
Saururus cernuus: Fruit Color
grass
Brown/Copper
grass
Green
Saururus cernuus: Display/Harvest Time
Fall
Spring
Summer
Winter
Saururus cernuus Flowers
Saururus cernuus: Flower Description
Long, narrow racemes opposite a leaf of nodding 4-6" (they can get as long as 12") spikes. These flowers' tips droop. The white flowers are on the small side, but they are fragrant and a bit showy. In North Carolina, the flowers are available from May to September.
Saururus cernuus: Flower Color
filter_vintage
White
Saururus cernuus: Flower Inflorescence
Catkin
Corymb
Cyme
Head
Insignificant
Panicle
Raceme
Solitary
Spadix
Spike
Umbel
Saururus cernuus: Flower Value To Gardener
Edible
Fragrant
Good Cut
Good Dried
Long Bloom Season
Long-lasting
Showy
Saururus cernuus: Flower Bloom Time
Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall
Saururus cernuus: Flower Size
1-3 inches
3-6 inches
< 1 inch
> 6 inches
Saururus cernuus Leaves
Saururus cernuus: Leaf Description
3-6" bright green, lance-shaped to triangular with heart-shaped base. Palmately veined.