About This Plant
Seedbox is a distinctive native perennial that thrives in wetland habitats such as marshes, pond edges, and wet meadows. Growing 2 to 4 feet tall, it features delicate, bright yellow, four-petaled flowers that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. As the season progresses, the flowers transform into unique, cube-shaped seed capsules that remain ornamental well into winter, giving the plant its memorable common name.
Ludwigia alternifolia performs best in full sun to partial shade and consistently moist to wet soils. It can tolerate shallow standing water and is ideal for rain gardens, riparian zones, and erosion control in water-prone areas. Its adaptability also makes it suitable for naturalizing in wetter parts of gardens or restoration sites.
Ecologically, it provides nectar for pollinators such as bees and butterflies and offers food and habitat for small wildlife. The plant’s ability to stabilize soil in wet areas helps prevent erosion, further enhancing its value in native landscaping. Its low-maintenance nature, unique seed capsules, and bright flowers make it an excellent addition to wetland restoration projects, naturalized landscapes, or water gardens.