PlantFiles: American Water Willow
Dianthera americana

Texas native

We have this in a container in our pond in Mobile, AL and after several years it's spread itself out among the rocks and is even reaching the "bank." Blooms all through May. Our landscaper seemed amused that we'd paid money at the Ponde Shoppe for a weed, but I love the pretty little flowers.

I have not grown this, but it is wild and prolific here in SC.

Here is the conversation that I had with the Clemson herbologist when asked to identify the plant:

" J. americana is also called Dianthera americana, often called 'water-willow'. It is in the family Acanthaceae. This is a nice native plant, always found in shallow water and sandy gravel at the margins of rivers or permanent streams.
I have had some luck growing the Justicia in a container set in a pool, so I think it is worth a try. Water circulation should not be needed. I'm not sure if it is generally sold as a waterplant, but a quick check on the internet should help. I love the flowers- they remind me of small orchids. They do like sun, by the way. They may not flower in shade. Also, they like shallow water - I would put them in a pot in water that comes up to the top of the pot, maybe 6 " or so. Or, they can be grown without a pot in a more natural setting. They will stand some freezing, and I think heat is not big problem. A nice one to try."

Pretty and unusual little spotted flowers on this hardy marginal.