Prostrate Marshwort: A Lesser-Known Wetland Plant for Specialized Gardens
If you’ve stumbled across the name prostrate marshwort in your plant research, you’re probably wondering what exactly this mysterious little herb is all about. Scientifically known as Apium prostratum, this low-growing member of the carrot family is one of those plants that flies under the radar in most gardening circles – and there are some good reasons why.
What Is Prostrate Marshwort?
Prostrate marshwort is a small, herbaceous plant that can live as either a biennial or perennial, depending on growing conditions. As its name suggests, this plant has a low, spreading growth habit that hugs the ground. It belongs to the same plant family as carrots, parsley, and celery, which means you can expect to see those characteristic divided leaves and small, umbrella-like clusters of tiny white flowers.
The plant is what botanists call a forb – essentially a non-woody flowering plant that dies back to ground level each year (if perennial) or completes its life cycle in one or two years (if annual or biennial).
Native Status and Distribution
Here’s where things get interesting – and a bit concerning for native plant enthusiasts. Prostrate marshwort is not native to North America. It’s an introduced species that has established itself in the wild and can reproduce without human intervention. Currently, it’s been documented growing in Washington state.
While we don’t have definitive information about its invasive potential or noxious weed status, the fact that it’s a non-native species that can self-perpetuate in natural areas is something to keep in mind when considering it for your garden.
Should You Grow Prostrate Marshwort?
This is where prostrate marshwort becomes a bit of a puzzle for gardeners. With limited information available about its growing requirements, garden performance, and ecological impact, it’s not exactly a go-to choice for most landscaping situations.
The plant might appeal to specialized gardeners who:
- Are creating bog gardens or wetland restoration areas
- Collect unusual members of the carrot family
- Want ground cover plants for consistently moist areas
Growing Conditions and Care
Based on its common name and family characteristics, prostrate marshwort likely prefers:
- Consistently moist to wet soils
- Full sun to partial shade
- Cool, temperate climates
However, specific information about soil pH preferences, fertilizer needs, and detailed care instructions is quite limited for this species. If you’re determined to grow it, you’d essentially be experimenting and learning as you go.
Better Native Alternatives
Given the uncertainties around prostrate marshwort and its non-native status, you might want to consider these native alternatives that offer similar growing conditions and garden roles:
- Wild ginger (Asarum canadense) – excellent native ground cover for moist, shaded areas
- Golden ragwort (Packera aurea) – native perennial that thrives in wet soils
- Marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) – beautiful native wetland plant with bright yellow flowers
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – native herb with excellent pollinator appeal
The Bottom Line
Prostrate marshwort falls into that category of plants that are more curiosities than garden workhorses. While it’s not definitively labeled as invasive, its non-native status and limited available growing information make it a questionable choice for most gardeners.
If you’re passionate about wetland gardening or collecting unusual plants, and you can source it responsibly, it might be worth a try in a controlled setting. However, for the vast majority of gardeners looking to create beautiful, ecologically beneficial landscapes, focusing on well-documented native alternatives will give you better results and peace of mind.
Remember, every plant we choose for our gardens is a vote for the kind of ecosystem we want to support. When in doubt, going native is rarely the wrong choice!
