Nymphoides cordata, also known as Little Floating Hearts, is a wildflower native to the United States and Canada. In the United States, it can be found in many states, including Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, and Texas (where it has been introduced). In Canada, they are native to New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Quebec.
Nymphoides cordata has a long history of use, dating back centuries ago when it was used medicinally by Native Americans for its medicinal properties. However, today we know that these beautiful flowers are not safe for consumption and should be kept away from pets or children who might be tempted to eat them due to their attractive colors and shapes. Ingesting any part of this plant could lead to digestive issues, vomiting, nausea, and other uncomfortable side effects so it’s best to err on the side of caution when deciding whether or not this flower is edible.
Although this flower is not edible, it can be used as a natural water feature in your garden; they attract butterflies and other pollinators like bees, require minimal maintenance once planted, and thrive in full sun with plenty of moisture but can tolerate some shade if needed.
In This Article
Nymphoides cordata Information
| Family | Menyanthaceae |
| Common Names | Little Floating Hearts |
| Native to USA | AL, CT, DE, FL, GA, LA, MA, MD, ME, MS, NC, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, SC, VT |
| Introduced to USA | TX |
| Native to CAN | NB, NF, NS, ON, QC |
| Size | leaves 1 to 2 inches long |
This beautiful flower grows atop long stems with small heart-shaped floating leaves that range from deep greenish-blue to yellowish-green. The flowers themselves come in shades of white or light blue and have five petals each. They will bloom throughout the summer months and attract butterflies and other pollinators like bees.
Little Floating Hearts are easy to care for; they require minimal maintenance once planted into an aquatic environment such as a pond or lake edge. They thrive best in full sun with plenty of moisture but can tolerate some shade if needed. Nymphoides cordata is a great addition to any natural water feature – you’ll love seeing them float around your garden.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nymphoides cordata edible?
No, Nymphoides cordata is not edible.
Is Nymphoides cordata an invasive species of plant?
No, Nymphoides cordata, is not considered to be an invasive species of plant.