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Water parsely

Oenanthe sarmentosa

perennial herb View on Calscape

Care

Sun

full sun

Soil

Standing

Size

5–5ft tall

Edible

Young shoots and leaves eaten cooked; traditionally used as food plant

Native Range

Wetlands and riparian areas throughout California from the north coast to San Diego County, below 3000 ft elevation, along streams and springs.

Care Guide

Planting

Plant water parsley in full sun in a location with consistently wet soil or standing water - this is a plant that thrives in boggy conditions, streambanks, and water features rather than typical garden beds. The best time to plant is in spring. Space plants according to their mature size of around 5 feet tall, and choose a spot where wet conditions are permanent or nearly permanent, as this plant is native to wet habitats throughout western North America.

After Planting

Water parsley doesn't require a weaning-off period since it's adapted to perpetually wet soil; the key is maintaining consistent moisture or standing water rather than allowing the soil to dry out. This is a perennial herb, so expect it to return year after year in the same location. The #1 mistake Bay Area gardeners make is planting this in standard garden soil and treating it like a typical perennial - it will decline without the wet conditions it demands.

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