Agueweed
Gentianella quinquefolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 3"–12" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AR, CT, GA, IA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Gentianella quinquefolia is a small annual wildflower that produces delicate purple tubular flowers from late summer through fall. This native plant grows in a compact form and provides late-season color when many other plants are finished blooming.
In an HOA neighborhood
Agueweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual lifecycle means gaps in plantings each year
- Small size and wild appearance may look sparse in formal settings
- Relatively unknown plant may be mistaken for a weed
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and moths, providing important nectar during the fall when fewer blooming plants are available. This makes it particularly valuable for supporting pollinators preparing for winter.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Agueweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.