This study looked into the water quality improvement effect of reed (Phragmites communis), bur reed (Sparaganium stoloniferum), Alisma canaliculatum, and Hydrocharis dubia in order to develop native hydrophytes suitable to natural-type wetlands for ecological restoration. The result confirms that the concentration of wastewater was lowered in most plants indicating a possibility in wastewater treatment. Among four species, reed (Phragmites communis) and bur reed (Sparaganium stoloniferum) were most effective in removing a majority of contaminants. Considering that reed (Phragmites communis) is a species that has been used most often among hydrophytes, bur reed (Sparaganium stoloniferum), which is a native species in Korea, showed equivalent level of outstanding effect. In the physiological and growing activity and its relations to water quality improvement effect, each species appeared differently. Reed (Phragmites communis) and bur reed (Sparaganium stoloniferum) were best also in physiological and growing activity. In the case of Hydrocharis dubia, growth was strong in polluted water environment but its physiological activity was poor, indicating that it was under stress. The growth and physiological activity of Alisma canaliculatum were also poor, indicating that it too is being stressed. However, measuring organic contents in the plants of each species shows that the organic contents of Alisma canaliculatum was high. Alisma canaliculatum is a species effective in removing pollutants in water, although it is under stress. A unique phenomenon in removing water pollution with plants is that each species removed different pollutants. In the case of Alisma canaliculatum, which was relatively poor in removing pollution, it was remarkable in reducing nitrogen and phosphorus. Hydrocharis dubia was also effective in eliminating floating matter.