Also known as Indian Salad · John's-Cabbage · Shawnee-Salad
Eastern Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum) is a shade-loving perennial with attractive foliage and small, bell-shaped flowers, ideal for woodland gardens.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial Shade to Full Shade
25% intensity
Thrives in shady conditions, especially in warmer climates. Protect from intense afternoon sun.
Consistently Moist
75% intensity
Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly to keep soil damp, avoiding waterlogging.
Moist, humus-rich
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures. Protect from extreme heat and frost.
Low
25% intensity
Generally does not require frequent fertilization. A light feeding in spring is sufficient.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic to pets and humans.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Eastern Waterleaf thrives in consistently moist soil. Water regularly, especially during dry spells, to maintain soil dampness without waterlogging. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in dormancy, but do not let the soil become completely dry.
Pruning is typically not a primary requirement for Hydrophyllum virginianum. Dead or damaged foliage can be removed at any time to maintain a tidy appearance.
If the plant becomes too leggy, light trimming in late spring can encourage bushier growth, but this is rarely necessary.
Hydrophyllum virginianum can be propagated by division of established clumps in early spring or fall. Seeds can also be sown in fall or stratified and sown in spring.
Division is generally the most straightforward method for home gardeners.
Repotting is infrequent as Eastern Waterleaf is a slow-growing perennial. If grown in a container and it becomes root-bound, repot in early spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix.
Ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Eastern Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum)
Where Eastern Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum virginianum) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Hydrophyllum |
| Species | Hydrophyllum virginianum |
Similar in genus Hydrophyllum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
