Species lizard's tail

lizard's tail

Saururus cernuus

Lizard's Tail (Saururus cernuus) is an aquatic, flowering plant native to the wetlands of North America east of the Rockies. Growing up to 2 feet in height, it is known for its distinctive heart-shaped to ovate basal leaves that clasp the stem. In early summer, white, fragrant flowers cluster at the end of the stem. The flowers produce nutlets that resemble lizards' tails, giving the plant its common name. Dried leaves may be used in floral arrangements due to their intense, bright-green color. Lizard's Tail requires moist conditions, full or partial sun, and regular watering.

Cycle:

Herbaceous Perennial

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Division,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 9

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Watering frequency and amount depend on the age and size of the lizard's tail plant, as well as the environmental conditions in which it is growing. In general, the plant should be kept evenly moist but not overly wet to ensure its growth. For a newly established plant, water about every 3-4 days, and then gradually reduce to once a week as the plant becomes established. Larger plants in more established growth should be watered just enough to keep the soil slightly damp and may only need water once every 7-14 days. During the hottest periods of summer, you may need to water more often to help the plant stay cool and healthy. If the potting soil begins to dry completely, saturate the soil to ensure adequate moisture.

sunlight

The lizard’s tail plant (Saururus cernuus) requires 2 to 4 hours of direct sunlight each day. It is best to place it in bright, indirect light with some periods of partial shade. Too much direct sunlight can cause sunburn of the delicate lizard’s tail leaves, so it should be protected from midday sun. These plants prefer full sun in the morning and afternoon, with some shade in the middle of the day.

pruning

Pruning for a plant species called lizard's tail is necessary to help maintain the desired shape and size. Pruning should take place in the spring or early summer after the last frost. Prune the plants lightly, cutting back the old growth to encourage new shoots. Do not be too aggressive when pruning, as it will result in a thin and lanky plant. Depending on how much you want theplant to spread, you can prune it back anywhere from 1-third to 2-thirds of its overall size or height.

Season

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

Saururus cernuus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Saururus cernuus typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Hardiness Map