Pacific Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum tenuipes) is a shade-loving perennial wildflower native to the Pacific Northwest, featuring attractive, deeply lobed leaves and clusters o
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Partial to Full Shade
25% intensity
Thrives in shady to partially shaded locations. Avoid direct afternoon sun.
Keep moist
75% intensity
Prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cooler temperatures, typically found in its native woodland habitats. Protect from extreme heat.
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding with a balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Pacific Waterleaf thrives in consistently moist soil. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
During hot, dry periods, increase watering frequency to maintain soil moisture. Proper drainage is crucial to prevent issues.
Pruning is minimal for Pacific Waterleaf. Dead or damaged foliage can be removed at any time to maintain a tidy appearance.
If the plant becomes leggy or overcrowded, you can cut it back by about one-third after flowering to encourage bushier growth and a more compact form.
Pacific Waterleaf can be propagated by seed or division. Sow seeds in autumn or early spring. Division is best performed in early spring before new growth emerges.
Carefully separate the root clumps, ensuring each division has healthy roots and shoots, and replant them promptly.
Repotting is generally not necessary for Pacific Waterleaf as it is a perennial that often naturalizes.
If grown in a container and it becomes root-bound, repot in early spring into a slightly larger pot using a 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 Pacific Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum tenuipes)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Hydrophyllum |
| Species | Hydrophyllum tenuipes |
Similar in genus Hydrophyllum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
