Virginia Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum)

Virginia Waterleaf

Hydrophyllum virginianum

Soft spotted leaves unfurl like watercolor art. Herbaceous perennial wildflower; common name: Virginia Waterleaf.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers dappled woodland shade or filtered partial sun; avoid intense midday summer sun to prevent leaf scorch
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Watering Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely
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Temperature Hardy to USDA zone 3; tolerates cool spring temperatures and mild summer heat
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Heart-shaped, softly hairy leaves with distinctive silver-white water-like spots along veins
  • Flower: Bell-shaped, pale blue to lavender blooms arranged in coiled terminal clusters
  • Stem: Erect, green, slightly hairy stems branching near the top
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain evenly moist soil to support active growth and flowering

Fertilization

Apply diluted organic feed once monthly. Use nitrogen-balanced organic feed to support foliage and flower development

Composted Banana Peel Tea:Steep fully composted banana peels in water for 24 hours, dilute 1:20, and apply as a root drench to support flower production
Pruning
  • Remove spent flower stalks after blooming to encourage self-seeding and tidy growth
  • Trim yellowing or damaged foliage in late summer to maintain plant health
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 2–3 years in early spring to improve vigor
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA confirmed non-toxic to cats; no reported toxicity

Humans: Non-toxic to humans; no known adverse health effects from ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Shade garden ground cover; native wildflower for pollinator support