How to Grow Pickerel Frog Lily
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Pickerel Frog Lily
Pontederia cordata
flowerPickerel rush is an aquatic perennial plant native to North America, featuring tall spikes of violet-blue or purple flowers that emerge above lanceolate green foliage. It thrives in shallow water environments and is commonly used in water gardens, pond edges, and wetland restoration projects. The plant is highly attractive to pollinators and provides excellent habitat for aquatic wildlife.
When should you plant Pickerel Frog Lily in your zone?
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Example Pickerel Frog Lily timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pickerel Frog Lily
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 Pickerel Frog Lily blooms
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pickerel Frog Lily dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-11; most vigorous in zones 5-9
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Establishment
3-4 weeksYoung plant develops root system in aquatic substrate; few leaves emerge above water
Maintain consistent water depth; protect from strong currents; ensure stable planting position
Vegetative Growth
4-6 weeksMultiple erect stems with lance-shaped leaves grow rapidly; dense green foliage emerges
Monitor water level; thin crowded growth if desired; remove dead leaves; apply aquatic fertilizer monthly
Budding
2-3 weeksFlower spikes begin to form at stem tips; violet buds cluster at spike apex
Maintain optimal sunlight exposure; continue fertilizing; ensure adequate water depth
Flowering
6-8 weeks (mid-summer through early fall)Dense spikes of violet-blue flowers bloom sequentially from bottom to top; flowers are small and clustered
Remove spent flower spikes to encourage continued blooming; deadheading extends flowering period
Dormancy
4-5 months (fall through spring)Foliage yellows and dies back as temperatures cool; plant withdraws energy to rhizomes below water
Cut dead foliage to water level; reduce fertilization; maintain water level through winter
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove affected leaves; in severe cases, apply neem oil or spinosad per label; introduce predatory insects
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Hand-pick affected plant material; remove and destroy infested leaves
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Improve water circulation; maintain healthy plant vigor; use beneficial nematodes if severe
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Spray with strong water stream; apply sulfur or insecticidal soap if needed
Uses
Ornamental Water Garden Feature
HouseholdPickerel rush is prized as a focal point in water gardens, pond margins, and constructed wetlands due to its tall violet flower spikes and attractive foliage. It adds vertical interest and color to aquatic landscapes from mid-summer through fall. [source]
Pollinator and Wildlife Habitat
WildlifeThe flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds seeking nectar, while the dense foliage provides shelter for aquatic insects, amphibians, and fish. The plant is essential for wetland ecosystem restoration and supports biodiversity in pond environments. [source]
Water Quality Improvement
HouseholdAs a marginal aquatic plant, pickerel rush helps filter and purify water through nutrient uptake from its roots, reducing excess nitrogen and phosphorus. This makes it valuable for ecological pond design and constructed treatment wetlands. [source]
Fresh and Dried Cut Flowers
CraftThe striking violet-blue flower spikes are excellent for fresh floral arrangements and can be dried for long-lasting dried flower displays. Cut stems last well in water and add elegant vertical interest to bouquets. [source]
Traditional Herbal Medicine
MedicinalNative American tribes traditionally used pickerel rush root extracts to treat various ailments including inflammatory conditions. While historically documented, medicinal use requires proper preparation and professional guidance. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Pickerel rush is not harvested for food but rather enjoyed for ornamental flowers and foliage. Cut flower spikes for fresh arrangements by removing stems at the base; flowers last 5-7 days in a vase with fresh water. Deadhead spent flowers regularly to promote continued blooming throughout the growing season.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pickerel rush gets its name from its association with pickerel fish (a type of pike) that inhabit the shallow waters where this plant naturally grows.
- 🌱 The flowers bloom sequentially from the bottom of the spike upward, with individual florets opening over several weeks to extend the flowering period.
- 🌱 Native American tribes used pickerel rush for both food (roasted seeds) and medicine, making it an important ethnobotanical plant with deep cultural significance in North America.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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