5 Seeds Pickerel Weed Pontederia cordata Aquatic Flower

Pickerel Weed (Pontederia cordata) is an aquatic perennial known for its bold, arrow-shaped green leaves and tall spikes of vibrant violet-blue flowers that rise above the water from mid-summer into early fall. A North American native, it brings a natural, meadow-like beauty to ponds, water gardens, and wetland plantings, drawing attention with its striking color and upright form.

This versatile aquatic works beautifully along pond margins, in shallow water, and in consistently moist bog or rain garden settings, where its clumping habit creates a soft natural border. The blooms and foliage add texture and vertical interest to water features, and the plant may also be grown in large watertight containers on a sunny patio. It performs best in full sun to partial shade and pairs well with other moisture-loving marginals.

Species: Pontederia cordata
Variety: Pickerel Weed
Type: Aquatic perennial
Plant_Habit: Upright clumping, marginal aquatic
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Rich, moist to wet; grows in shallow water up to a few inches over the crown
Days_to_Harvest: Not applicable
Zones: 3-10
Germination: Surface sow; requires light and consistent moisture; cold stratification improves results. Germination is often slow and irregular.
Sowing: Sow on moist seed-starting medium, press seeds lightly into surface, keep wet, and maintain warm temperatures; transplant to shallow water once established.
Spacing: 12-18 inches apart
Notes: Keep roots consistently wet once seedlings mature; ideal for ponds, water gardens, and wetland areas.