Water Dropwort
Oenanthe sarmentosafam. Apiaceae
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Pl. F8C7 — Oenanthe sarmentosa
Oenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosaOenanthe sarmentosa
IOverview
Overview
Water Dropwort, scientifically known as Oenanthe sarmentosa, is a perennial herb that thrives in moist to wet environments across the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. This plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and is often found in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. Native to regions including Alaska, British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington, Water Dropwort is known for its edible parts, which include both the root and stem. While it grows best in full sun, this forb/herb can adapt to various conditions making it a versatile addition to gardens or natural landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Water Dropwort?
Water Dropwort, scientifically known as Oenanthe sarmentosa, is a perennial herb that thrives in moist to wet environments across the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. This plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and is often found in light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Water Dropwort thrives in full sun and requires moist to wet soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This perennial plant grows up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently damp; it prefers a well-drained but moisture-retentive environment. Propagate through root division or seed sowing. Harvest edible parts from the stem and root.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Water Dropwort for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, moist environment and basic care for Water Dropwort.
- 1
What you'll need
A container or garden bed, seeds or young plants, good quality soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in early spring or late fall when the weather is cooler.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is moist, well-draining, and rich with organic matter. For containers, use a mix of light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the garden bed or start young plants indoors before transplanting them to the garden after all danger of frost has passed.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide light shade during this period to help seedlings establish.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially in dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune stems as needed for shape and to encourage new growth. Harvest roots when mature, typically after the first frost.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:RootStem
Edible uses: The root and stem of Water Dropwort can be eaten. Typically, they are prepared by cooking or drying before consumption. Skip the raw version due to potential toxicity.
Other uses:Crafting
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 5 native
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Oregon, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Apiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Apiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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