Sagittaria latifolia

Sagittaria latifolia is one of those widespread North American native plants that's rarely grown in gardens. Native from all the US states except Utah and Nevada, broadleaf arrowhead is usually found in swamps or damp lowlands, making it perfect for consistently wet spots in the garden. The thick-textured, 10" long x 6" wide arrowhead shaped green leaves create a wonderful bold texture where the rapidly spreading 4' tall clumps are allowed to grow. Sagittaria latifolia also produces starchy tubers known as duck potatoes...a great food source for Native Americans as well as ducks, turtles. The nectar and pollen of the flowers also attract a variety of insects, including many bee species, wasps, butterflies, and beetles. Menageries anyone? Starting in summer, the 3' long flowering shoots emerge, ending with attractive open clusters of large, 3-petalled, white flowers. If that's not enough, a concoction of the roots is used to treat sores and wounds, which you'll sure have if you try to handle all the creatures that visit broadleaf arrowhead.