Bare-Stemmed Tick-Trefoil
Hylodesmum nudiflorum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 25 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Tick-trefoil is a native woodland wildflower with three-leaflet compound leaves and small pink to purple flowers that bloom through summer. This low-growing perennial spreads slowly to form colonies in partially shaded areas with average moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bare-Stemmed Tick-Trefoil 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.
- Seed pods stick to clothing and pets
- Can appear weedy or unkempt
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. Seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals.
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 Bare-Stemmed Tick-Trefoil fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.