Diggin' It

Perennial plants for wet places

Plants that don't mind wet feet

By Judy Lowe

June 25, 2008

If you have areas in your yard that remain wet or moist (but not covered with water) just about all the time, you’ve discovered that many plants don’t, as gardeners say, like wet feet.

But that’s no reason to abandon those areas. Here’s a list of perennial flowers and ornamental grasses that prefer moist soil.

Note that not all of these are suitable for every region of the US – they may not be cold-hardy or heat-tolerant enough for where you live -- so check out anythat sound interesting with a local nursery.

Also, find out the size and blooming times of those you’re interested in.

A warning: Avoid chameleon plant (Houtonia). It’s admittedly attractive and appealing – and, unfortunately, a real thug in the garden. It will take over and is very difficult to get rid of. Rushes, forget-me-not, and yellow flag iris – other moisture lovers – may also be invasive where you live.

This is only a partial list, of course. Do add a comment with your favorites that aren’t mentioned.

Sun
Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis)
Japanese iris (Iris ensata)
Joe-Pye weed (Eupatorium purpureum)
Louisiana iris
Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris)
Papyrus (Cyperus)
Pitcher plant (Sarracenia)
Reed grass (Calamagrostis)
Rose mallow (Hibiscus moscheutos)
Swamp hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus)
Switch grass (Panicum virgatum)
Sweet flag (Acorus)
Umbrella plant (Darmera)