Species water willow
cascading clusters of vibrant, small pink-blue flowers and hairy green leaves with bee sitting on them

water willow

Justicia tweediana

Water willow (Justicia tweediana) is a popular aquatic plant native to South Carolina and Georgia. It is characterized by soft oval leaves that reach up to 2 inches in length and intertwining, wispy stems. In summer, it produces pretty light blue flowers with deep yellow throats. The water willow is often found in ponds, stream banks, and swamps. It is easy to take care of and requires minimal sunlight. As a deep-rooting perennial, it helps to stabilize streambanks, reduce erosion and provide habitat for aquatic species. It is a beautiful addition to any water garden!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Minimum

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation,Grafting Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

8 - 10

Flowers:

Purple Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Invasive:

Yes

watering

Water willow (Justicia tweediana) should be watered consistently and deeply in order to encourage strong and healthy growth. Water once or twice a week with enough water to drench the root system. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. In extremely hot and dry conditions, more frequent or regular watering may be needed to help keep the plants lush and full.

sunlight

Water willow (Justicia tweediana) is an evergreen perennial plant that thrives in full sunlight. It grows best in warm climates, and it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day in order to thrive. In cooler climates, it should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day. Providing the right amount of light is essential for the plant's health and growth. In areas with intense sunlight or that experience hot summers, providing some afternoon shade is helpful for this species. This will help prevent the plant from becoming overexposed, as too much direct sunlight can dehydrate and damage the foliage.

pruning

Water Willow (Justicia tweediana) is best pruned in late spring just before the new growth appears. Remove dead, diseased, or crossed branches first, then thin growth as necessary to improve air circulation and light penetration. Pruning should not remove more than 1-third of the overall growth of the plant. Large, overgrown plants may benefit from hard pruning, with the removal of up to 2-thirds of the entire plant.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Justicia tweediana typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Justicia tweediana typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map