Best Plants for a Sunny Birdbath Water Feature in the Deep South

Choose True Aquatic or Marginal Plants

A birdbath holds standing water, so select plants that tolerate—or require—wet roots.

Top Picks for South Louisiana

• Parrot's feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum): Feathery, trailing foliage; thrives in shallow water.
• Water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes): Floating rosettes; may be invasive—check local regulations.
• Creeping jenny (Lysimachia nummularia 'Aurea'): Golden trailing leaves; grows in wet margins.

Non-Aquatic Option: Sweet Potato Vine

Place a potted sweet potato vine (Ipomoea batatas) on a pedestal inside the birdbath so roots stay above water. 'Blackie' or 'Marguerite' cultivars cascade beautifully.

Maintenance

• Top off water daily in summer heat.
• Mosquito dunks (Bti) prevent breeding.
• Remove decaying foliage promptly.

True aquatics give the most authentic "draping" look with minimal fuss.