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Ditch Stonecrop

Penthorum sedoides

CommonPlant
Illustration of Ditch Stonecrop (Penthorum sedoides)

Ditch Stonecrop is a native semi-aquatic perennial that resembles a stonecrop but is unrelated, placed in its own family Penthoraceae. Growing 1–3 feet tall in wet, muddy habitats, it produces slender clusters of small greenish-yellow flowers that curve like a scorpion's tail. Found across eastern North America in ditches, stream margins, and wet disturbed areas, it is an overlooked but ecologically valuable native wetland plant. The red to purple fall coloration adds ornamental value.

Habitat
Found in wet ditches, stream margins, lake shores, and disturbed wet areas across eastern North America.
Diet
Flowers attract small native bees and flies; seeds eaten by waterfowl.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Ditch Stonecrop

The best time to see a Ditch Stonecrop is July–September, when about 77% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 5,111 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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