Species pickerel weed
purple-burgundy flowers with gray cones, green leaves and lime stems

pickerel weed

Pontederia cordata

Pickerel weed (Pontederia cordata) is an aquatic perennial native to North America. Growing to 2 feet in height, it has shiny foliage with corn-like clusters of small purple, blue, or white flowers blossoming in late spring to early fall. It prefers sunny areas in wetlands such as ponds and marshes, and usually spreads by rhizomes and separate stolons. Its seed has a floating seed head that attracts waterfowl, which disperse the seed. The aquatic leaves are also edible for humans, and the plant has uses in traditional medicine for ailments such as stomach aches.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 10

Flowers:

Soft blue Flowers

Sun:

Full sun

Fruits:

green,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Summer

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Pickerel weed (Pontederia cordata) grows best in moist soil and should be watered when the top inch or 2 of the soil is dry. Depending on climate and temperature, the plant may need to be watered 1-3 times a week if grown in partial shade or 2-4 times a week if grown in full sun. It is best to water the plant deeply but thoroughly, saturating the entire root zone. Over-watering can cause root rot, so be sure not to overdo it.

sunlight

Pickerel weed species (Pontederia cordata) grows best in full sunlight or in partial shade, and can tolerate a wide range of light intensities. While the plant species prefers full sun, it can survive in shade with 4 to 6 hours of sunlight daily. Direct sunlight is not necessary for growth, as ample indirect light will provide enough for good growth. The ideal temperature range for this species is between 65 and 90°F but it can withstand temperatures up to 120 °F. When placed in direct sunlight situations, the pickerel weed should be moved to a partially shaded spot during the mid-day hours when the sun is strongest. With the hot summer temperatures in most areas, it is best to give this plant a maximum of 6 hours of direct sunlight to prevent scorching or fading of color.

pruning

Pickerel Weed (Pontederia cordata) should be pruned in early spring before active growth begins. Cut back the green stems and leaves to about 4 inches from the crown of the plant. This will stimulate new growth throughout the season and promote a fuller, more compact habit. Prune the flower spikes back after flowering has completed; this will improve the appearance of the plant and help prevent seed dispersal. Pruning a healthy Pickerel Weed will also help to control its spread.

Season

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

Harvesting of Pontederia cordata typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

Pickerel weed typically starts flowering in June.

Harvest Fruit

Harvesting of Pontederia cordata typically begins in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map