10 Seeds Saururus cernuus (Lizard's Tail) – Native Aquatic Perennial
Saururus cernuus, commonly known as Lizard's Tail or Water Dragon, is a charming native aquatic perennial that brings graceful, arching white flower spikes to ponds, water gardens, and boggy areas from midsummer onward. Its heart-shaped green leaves form a lush, spreading clump, creating a naturalized look that attracts beneficial pollinators while softening the edges of any water feature.
This versatile plant thrives in shallow water or consistently moist soil, making it an excellent choice for rain gardens, stream banks, or container water plantings. As an ornamental, it provides pleasing vertical interest and a gentle, wild aesthetic, while its robust growth habit helps stabilize soil in damp locations. Lizard's Tail spreads slowly via rhizomes, offering reliable seasonal structure without being overly aggressive.
Species: Saururus cernuus
Type: Herbaceous perennial
Plant Habit: Spreading clump
Sun: Partial shade to full sun
Soil: Moist, rich; tolerates shallow water up to 3 inches deep
Days to Harvest: Not applicable
Zones: 4-9
Germination: 30-60 days cold stratification
Sowing: Surface sow on moist soil; keep consistently wet
Spacing: 12-18 inches apart
Notes: Water depth up to 2 inches for mature growth