Lizard's-tail (Saururus cernuus): complete guide

Overview

Lizard's-tail (Saururus cernuus) is a remarkable native plant from the Saururaceae family, native to eastern United States through Mexico. This elegant plant is renowned for its characteristic drooping (cernuous) white flower spikes that resemble lizard's tails. The plant grows in wet, marshy habitats and is essential for wetland gardens and water-loving landscapes. With its heart-shaped leaves and long-lasting white flowers, it brings grace to water edges.

Appearance and Bloom

Lizard's-tail grows as an elegant, upright herb reaching about 60 to 90 centimeters tall. The plant produces large, heart-shaped leaves that grow in clusters along the stems. The characteristic white flower spikes (spikelets) droop gracefully, giving the plant its name. These flowers appear in June and remain flowering through August, providing long periods of interest. The flower spikes darken as they mature.

Ideal Location

Lizard's-tail grows best in partial to full shade, making it ideal for water edge zones. Ensure at least 2-3 hours of light daily. The plant tolerates full sun but appears fuller and healthier in lightly shaded areas. Position the plant in a moist to wet spot near water, where roots can regularly be reached by water.

Soil

Lizard's-tail grows in consistently moist to wet soils. The plant tolerates water-logged ground and can grow in shallow water. It grows best in rich soils containing organic matter. In temperate gardens, compost or muddy material can be added to the plant. The plant also grows well in pure water hydroponic systems.

Watering

Keep soil always moist to wet. This is essential for optimal growth. Water can be directly to several centimeters deep where the plant grows. Watering is needed during dry periods. The plant appreciates higher relative humidity and may disappear in dry, hot conditions. In containers the pot should be placed in a water tray.

Pruning

Pruning is minimally needed. Remove dead stems in late fall or early spring after the plant has died back. Some maintenance as needed, but the plant will usually form itself naturally. Remove only damaged or diseased parts.

Maintenance Calendar

April: Young leaves appear as temperatures rise. May-June: Growth accelerates and flower spikes begin appearing. June-August: Flowering and full flower production. September-October: Leaves begin turning color. November-March: Plant goes dormant, stems die back.

Winter Hardiness

Lizard's-tail is hardy in temperate climates and survives temperatures down to about -20 degrees Celsius. The plant loses its leaves in fall and regrows from roots in spring. In very cold regions, mulching around the plant in fall can help provide protection.

Companion Plants

Combine lizard's-tail with other wetland plants such as pickerelrush and water mint. Iris varieties add vertical interest. Dark-leaved hostas create contrasts. For larger wetland landscape, combine with other water-loving native plants such as trillium and Solomon's seal.

Conclusion

Lizard's-tail is a must-have for those wanting to create wetland and water gardens. With its distinctive flowers and natural elegance, this plant brings much character to wet, marshy gardens. Once established, it provides years of beauty with minimal maintenance requirements.

Availability: Available at garden centers with good water plant sections. Seek native plant specialists or water gardens.