How to Grow Lizard's Tail
iNaturalist
Lizard's Tail
Saururus cernuus
flowerLizard's tail is a native North American perennial that grows in wetlands and marshy areas, producing distinctive nodding flower spikes that resemble a reptile's tail. The plant features heart-shaped leaves and white, fragrant flowers that bloom mid to late summer. It thrives in consistently moist to wet conditions and is an excellent choice for bog gardens, pond margins, and rain gardens.
When should you plant Lizard's Tail in your zone?
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Example Lizard's Tail timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Lizard's Tail
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Lizard's Tail blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Lizard's Tail dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, with best performance in zones 5-8
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Get my Lizard's Tail timeline →Growth Stages
Dormancy/Early Spring
Winter until late springPlant is dormant underground or showing minimal growth; rhizomes are developing
Ensure soil remains moist even during dormancy; apply mulch to protect rhizomes in colder zones
Vegetative Growth
Late spring to early summer (6-8 weeks)Shoots emerge and expand, heart-shaped leaves develop and multiply; plant builds leaf structure and root system
Maintain consistently wet soil; provide partial shade in hot climates; apply balanced fertilizer monthly
Budding
Mid-summer (2-3 weeks)Flower spikes form at stem tips; initially upright, then curve downward; buds appear white and tightly clustered
Continue consistent moisture; reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering; support tall stems if needed
Flowering
Mid to late summer (6-8 weeks)Distinctive nodding (cernuous) white flower spikes bloom, resembling a lizard's tail; fragrant flowers attract pollinators
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming; maintain moisture and humidity; support weak stems
Seed Development & Dormancy
Late summer through fallFlowers fade; seed pods develop; foliage begins to decline in fall; plant prepares for winter dormancy
Allow seed heads to remain for wildlife; cut back dead foliage in late fall; reduce watering as plant enters dormancy
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove by hand; use copper tape barriers; encourage ground beetles and toads; avoid over-watering during wet seasons
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Increase humidity and water spray on foliage; use insecticidal soap if severe
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; introduce natural predators
Uses
Wetland Garden Display
OrnamentalThe distinctive nodding white flower spikes and heart-shaped foliage make lizard's tail a striking focal point in bog gardens, rain gardens, and pond margins. Its native habitat origin makes it ideal for naturalistic landscape design. [source]
Pollinator and Wildlife Support
WildlifeFragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators throughout mid to late summer. The dense foliage provides shelter for aquatic insects and small amphibians in wetland environments. [source]
Traditional Herbal Use
MedicinalNative Americans traditionally used lizard's tail in herbal remedies for various ailments, and some herbalists use it today, though scientific validation is limited. [source]
Fresh and Dried Arrangements
CraftThe gracefully nodding flower spikes are excellent in fresh flower arrangements and can be dried for long-lasting botanical displays. The unique form adds interest to floral designs. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Lizard's tail is ornamental and not typically harvested for food. Cut flower spikes for fresh arrangements when in full bloom; harvest in early morning for best fragrance and longevity. Seed heads can be collected in fall once they dry on the plant.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The common name 'Lizard's tail' comes from the plant's distinctive nodding flower spike, which closely resembles a curved reptile's tail—the scientific species name 'cernuus' means 'nodding' or 'drooping.'
- 🌱 Lizard's tail is native to wetlands and swamps throughout eastern North America and is an excellent indicator species of healthy wetland ecosystems.
- 🌱 The plant produces fragrant flowers that have a pleasant, sweet scent especially noticeable in early morning and evening, attracting night-flying pollinators.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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