This is a common plant found on gravel bars and the banks of streams throughout Missouri. It has white, orchid-like flowers with purple markings. You might hear the loud buzz of hundreds of bees and other insects before you see the colony of water willow that they find so enticing; it is a pollinator magnet. 

Water willow is an emergent aquatic that will grow in up to three feet of standing water. It's root system is highly rhizomatous and can form large colonies that help stabilize banks and shorelines. These colonies provide cover for small fish and other aquatic wildlife.

Uses: Pollinators, erosion control, container gardens
Bloom time: May to October

Height: 1 to 3 feet above waterline
Space: 18 to 36 inches

Sun: Full sun to medium shade
Moisture: Wet