Lizard's Tail

Saururus cernuus

Saururus cernuus, known as Lizard's Tail, is a graceful North American wetland plant producing heart-shaped leaves on arching stems that create naturalistic wetland character in riparium and shallow aquarium setups. When grown emersed it produces distinctive arching white flower spikes — among the most naturally beautiful and botanically authentic flowering displays achievable from a North American wetland plant in a paludarium environment.

Care note: Saururus cernuus is best grown in emersed or terrarium conditions with consistent humidity rather than fully submerged. Maintain temperatures of 65–80°F and a humid environment for healthy, vibrant growth.

Lizard's Tail grows best emersed or semi-emersed in shallow water or consistently moist substrate — conditions that mirror its natural habitat in the shallow margins of North American streams, ponds, and wetlands. In riparium setups the arching stems create naturalistic, sweeping structure with the characteristic heart-shaped leaves. The white arching flower spikes, when produced, create a uniquely beautiful botanical display.

This easy plant grows in moderate lighting with CO₂ optional. The temperature range of 65 to 80°F reflects the temperate North American origin and genuine cold tolerance. A pH of 6.0 to 7.5 provides comfortable conditions. Regular fertilization supports vigorous stem production. The chart notes it is often used in ripariums or shallow tanks growing best emersed — accurate guidance for optimal results.

In the riparium and paludarium, Saururus cernuus creates a graceful, arching stem structure of genuine North American wetland botanical character. The heart-shaped leaves and arching stems create natural, organic movement. The white flower spikes when produced are genuinely stunning botanical events in the paludarium.

Saururus cernuus is a graceful and botanically rewarding North American wetland plant for riparium and paludarium aquarists who want authentic regional character alongside elegant arching stem structure. Its heart-shaped leaves and occasional white flower spikes make it one of the most naturally beautiful and botanically authentic North American paludarium plants available.

Care & Specifications