Aunt Lucy
Ellisia nyctelea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AR, CO, CT, IA and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Aunt Lucy is a delicate native annual wildflower that grows 6-24 inches tall with small white or pale blue flowers from April through June. This modest forb prefers partial shade and medium moisture, making it suitable for woodland gardens or naturalized areas. As an annual, it completes its life cycle in one growing season and may self-seed under favorable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Aunt Lucy takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Small stature and delicate appearance may look weedy
- Annual nature means gaps when plants die back
- Informal wildflower appearance doesn't fit typical landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
This native plant provides nectar and pollen for bees and flies during its spring to early summer bloom period. Its early flowering time makes it particularly valuable for supporting pollinators when fewer food sources are available.
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 Aunt Lucy fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.