Lizard's Tail
Saururus cernuus 'Hertford Streaker'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
30 inches
Width
36 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moist to wet
Humidity
High
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Handle with care; may be toxic if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Saururus cernuus, commonly known as Lizard's Tail, is a perennial aquatic or semi-aquatic plant distinguished by its heart-shaped green leaves and upright, drooping spikes of tiny, fragrant white flowers that resemble a lizard's tail. The 'Hertford Streaker' cultivar features variegated foliage with streaks of white and green, adding ornamental appeal, and produces dense flower spikes that stand out in water gardens or moist landscapes.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into moist soil in early spring
- Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist
- Mulch around base to retain moisture
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years in early spring
- Prune back after flowering to promote bushier growth
- Mist cuttings in late spring for propagation
Pro Tip
Ensure soil remains moist and shaded for optimal growth
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly to keep soil moist 🌱
- Mulch to conserve moisture
- Divide every few years for healthy growth
Don't
- Avoid dry, sandy soils ❌
- Don’t expose to full sun for prolonged periods
- Refrain from over-fertilizing
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Divide | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Lizard's Tail questions
What zones can Lizard's Tail grow in?
Lizard's Tail is hardy in USDA Zones 4–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Lizard's Tail deer resistant?
Yes — Lizard's Tail is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Lizard's Tail bloom?
Lizard's Tail typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Lizard's Tail need full sun?
Lizard's Tail does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
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Grow Lizard's Tail with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
