How to Grow Pickerelrush
iNaturalist
Pickerelrush
Pontederia cordata
flowerPickerelrush is a semi-aquatic perennial plant native to North America, known for its striking purple-blue flower spikes that emerge above heart-shaped leaves. It thrives in shallow water and marshy areas, making it ideal for water gardens, pond margins, and wetland restoration. The plant provides excellent habitat and food for waterfowl and aquatic insects.
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Example Pickerelrush timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pickerelrush
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 Pickerelrush blooms
Around Apr 18≈ 1 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pickerelrush dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 3-9; cold-hardy and well-adapted to temperate wetlands
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Get my Pickerelrush timeline →Growth Stages
Emergence
3-4 weeksNew shoots emerge from the rhizome in spring, with tightly rolled leaves beginning to unfurl
Ensure water levels are consistent. Gradually increase water depth as shoots strengthen. Remove any debris from previous season.
Vegetative Growth
6-8 weeksHeart-shaped leaves expand and stems elongate; plant builds foliage mass above the water surface
Maintain stable water depth. Fertilize monthly with aquatic plant fertilizer if desired. Remove any dead or damaged leaves.
Flowering
8-12 weeks (June-September)Distinctive purple-blue flower spikes emerge above the foliage, densely packed with small tubular flowers opening from bottom to top
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continued blooming. Ensure adequate sunlight for peak flower production. Water level should remain stable.
Seed Development
4-6 weeksFlowers fade and seed pods develop along the spike; foliage remains lush and green
Leave seedheads in place if seed dispersal is desired, or remove for tidiness. Continue regular maintenance of water conditions.
Dormancy
3-4 months (October-March)Foliage dies back in fall and winter; plant retreats underground as a dormant rhizome beneath the soil and water
Cut back dead foliage to water level in late fall. Leave rhizomes undisturbed in place. Maintain water depth through winter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Hand-pick adults; tolerate minor damage as these beetles rarely cause serious harm; biological control through beneficial aquatic insects
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Usually not problematic; remove heavily damaged foliage; maintain healthy plant vigor through proper water and light conditions
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Hand-pick if population is excessive; introduce natural predators like freshwater fish; tolerate moderate populations as they aid in ecosystem balance
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Improve water circulation and air flow; remove affected leaves; reduce water splashing; in severe cases, apply copper fungicide formulated for aquatic use
Uses
Waterfowl and Pollinator Habitat
WildlifePickerelrush provides food and shelter for ducks, geese, and other waterfowl, while its nectar-rich flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The dense foliage creates nesting sites and protection for aquatic birds. [source]
Water Garden Ornamental
HouseholdThe striking purple-blue flower spikes and attractive heart-shaped foliage make pickerelrush an excellent focal point for ponds, water gardens, and artificial wetlands. It provides vertical interest and vibrant color throughout the summer. [source]
Wetland Restoration
HouseholdPickerelrush is native to North American wetlands and is widely used in ecological restoration projects, bioswales, and rain gardens to stabilize banks, improve water quality, and restore native habitat. [source]
Traditional Indigenous Uses
CulinaryHistorically, some Native American tribes used pickerelrush seeds as a food source, though this use is not common in modern times. The roots and seeds are edible but require proper preparation. [source]
Fresh and Dried Flower Arrangements
CraftThe distinctive flower spikes can be cut for fresh floral arrangements and hold their color well. Spikes can also be dried for long-lasting botanical displays. [source]
Harvest Tips
Pickerelrush is not harvested for food. Flower stems can be cut for fresh floral arrangements when spikes are in bloom. Cut stems just above the water surface using clean shears. For seed collection, allow seedheads to mature fully before cutting and drying.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pickerelrush is named for its association with pickerel fish, which inhabit the wetlands where it grows naturally.
- 🌱 The plant's flowers open in sequence from the bottom of the spike to the top, sometimes over several weeks, allowing for extended blooming periods.
- 🌱 Pickerelrush has been shown to be effective in phytoremediation, absorbing excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus from water, making it valuable for treating stormwater runoff and improving water quality.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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