🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Pacific Waterleaf leaves and young shoots can be eaten cooked, though they are not particularly flavorful. The plant is mainly valuable for its attractive foliage and flowers, which attract pollinators. It can serve as a ground cover in shady, moist areas of a permaculture garden.
Permapeople description
Hydrophyllum tenuipes, also known as Pacific Waterleaf, is a perennial herb found in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. It grows in moist forests and along stream banks. The plant has lobed leaves and clusters of white or pale blue flowers.
Botanical description
Hydrophyllum tenuipes is a perennial herbaceous plant in the borage family (Boraginaceae). It grows to a height of 1-3 feet tall and features deeply lobed, palmate leaves that are often mottled with silvery markings. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and range in color from white to pale lavender or blue. They are borne in dense, terminal clusters called scorpioid cymes. The stems are slender and weak, often reclining or sprawling. Fruits are small capsules containing few seeds.
Companion planting
Hydrophyllum tenuipes thrives in moist, shady conditions and is a good companion plant for other shade-loving perennials such as ferns, hostas, and trilliums. Its presence can attract pollinators, benefiting nearby flowering plants. There are no documented unfavorable companion plants.
Propagation methods
Propagation can be achieved through seed sowing in the fall or spring. Division of established clumps is also a viable method, ideally performed in early spring or fall. Rooting stem cuttings is possible, though less common.
History and traditions
Native American tribes in the Pacific Northwest utilized various Hydrophyllum species for medicinal purposes. While specific uses for Hydrophyllum tenuipes are not widely documented, other waterleaf species were used as poultices for wounds and burns. They were also sometimes consumed as a spring green, providing essential vitamins after winter.
Usage calendar
Flowering occurs from late spring to early summer (May-July). Seeds ripen in late summer. The optimal time for planting is in the fall or early spring. Division can be done in spring or fall.