Water Willow

Justicia americana

Alternate names
American Water Willow

Weed Description
A perennial from rhizomes that is capable of forming large colonies. Water willow is primarily found along the shorelines or in shallow water of lakes, ponds, or streams.

Leaves
Arranged oppositely along the stem and are elliptic to linear in outline, approximately 6 inches long. Leaves have a distinctive white midvein that runs the length of the entire leaf.

Stems
May reach 2 1/2 feet in height and are stout with prominent white lines.

Flowers
Arranged oppositely on crowded spikes at the ends of long flower stalks (peduncles) that originate from the position between the leaf and the stem (leaf axils). Petals are white with purple tinges. Flowers have a distinctive lower lip that is approximately 3/4 inch long.

Fruit
A capsule that is approximately 1/2 inch long.

Identifying Characteristics
The linear leaves with a white midrib, the prominent white lines along the stems, and the colonizing growth habit along shorelines are all characteristics that help to distinguish water willow from most other shoreline plants.

Trouble identifying a weed?

For additional assistance identifying weeds, contact Dr. Kevin Braldly, State Extension Weed Scientist (bradleyke@missouri.edu).

Office of Programs

University of Missouri

Water Willow

Justicia americana

Trouble identifying a weed?