Hydrophyllum virginianum | Virginia waterleaf

This plant will not be available in 2026, however, propagation is planned/underway. Please sign up for the waitlist below to receive updates on availability in future years.

Don't let the name fool you, Virginia waterleaf is a native woodlander, not an aquatic plant. The name actually refers to the white spots on the leaves which supposedly resemble water stains.

Small white or blue flowers dance above the mottled leaves from May to June. Young shoots and leaves are edible, giving the plant two of its common names: John's cabbage and Shawnee salad.

Zones: 4 to 8
Family: Hydrophyllaceae
Type: Perennial
Height: 12 to 24 in.
Spread: 12 to 24 in.
Exposure: part shade
Soil Conditions: moist, well-drained
Bloom Time: May to June
Bloom Color: white or blue
Native Range: eastern North America