// SPECIES PROFILE · PERENNIAL · NATIVE

Lizard's tail

Saururus cernuus

Lizard's tail (Saururus cernuus) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 3a–11b. Mature size 6"–4'. Blooms Apr–Aug.

// QUICK FACTS

Family: —
Group: perennial
Native range: Native to 29 U.S. states, including AL, AR, CT, DC, DE, FL…
USDA hardiness: Zones 3a–11b
Mature size: 6"–4'
Sun: Part shade
Water: High · moisture-loving
Bloom: Apr–Aug
Wildlife value: Pollinator and wildlife support
Ecological role: native species profile

Lizard's tail (Saururus cernuus) — *Saururus cernuus* — Lizard's tail. Photo by Eric Hunt via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).

Field Notes

[ growing · ecology · siting · care ]

Lizard's tail (Saururus cernuus) is a perennial in the — family. Native range includes AR, KS, MO, OK. Hardy in zones 3a–11b. Mature size 6"–4'. Blooms Apr–Aug.

Why it's on this list: native species profile. Native-range data from the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (NPIN), cross-checked against iNaturalist observations. Part of Rooted Revival's regional native plant catalog — true natives for Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.

Companion Planting

[ guild · polyculture · cross-layer pairings ]

In the same native range, lizard's tail pairs naturally with: Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia), Blue-Eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium angustifolium), Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), Cardinal Flower (Lobelia cardinalis).