Hydrophyllum canadense aka Blunt Leaf Waterleaf

Hydrophyllum canadense is a woodland perennial in the borage family. Its names include broad-leaf waterleaf and Canada waterleaf. It grows wild in eastern and central North America. Its range includes Ontario, Quebec, and much of the eastern United States. It grows in damp woods, thickets, and along forest edges. It also grows beside rocky streams and on low ground. Some southern and New England populations face regional conservation concerns.

Plants reach about 1.8–2 feet [0.56–0.61 metres] tall. They spread about 1–1.3 feet [0.30–0.41 metres] wide. Scaly rhizomes let them spread into colonies. The straight green stems may be smooth or bear sparse hairs. These stiff hairs curve down toward the ground. Young leaves show silver patches against their green surface. Leaves grow at the base and alternate along the stems. The long basal leaves have seven to eleven deep lobes. Their edges bear teeth, and their upper sides have sparse hairs. Stem leaves have five to nine shallow, palmate lobes. Their shape ranges from egg-shaped to nearly round.

Flowers open from May through July beneath the upper leaves. Their hidden position can make the clusters hard to see. Each flower has five joined petals forming a small bell or cup. The blooms are white with pink or purple tones. Long stamens extend well beyond the petals. Hairs give the flower clusters a soft, fuzzy look. Native bees and bumblebees visit the flowers. Small, round green capsules follow the blooms in summer. Stiff black hairs cover these dry fruits, which split when ripe.

Grow this plant in moist soil rich in humus. It suits dappled light, partial shade, or deep shade. It accepts neutral to alkaline soil and tolerates wet ground. Plants For A Future lists USDA hardiness zones 4–8. Basal leaves can persist when the soil stays moist. This makes it useful as ground cover in shaded gardens. It also suits native gardens, stream edges, and naturalized plantings. Gardeners can divide clumps in spring or autumn. NC State reports no serious pest or disease problems. Plants For A Future warns that slugs can cause severe damage.

Young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Older leaves turn bitter, so their age matters for food use. The cooked root has served as a scarcity food. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards. That statement does not establish safety for pets. NC State records Native American medicinal use of the root. Plants For A Future lists no known medicinal uses.