Boreal Starwort
Stellaria borealis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, CT, ID and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Boreal starwort is a low-growing perennial groundcover with small white star-shaped flowers that bloom from May through August. This compact plant forms neat mats in partially shaded areas and requires moderate watering to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Boreal Starwort 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.
- Very small flowers may appear weedy to HOAs
- Low informal growth pattern lacks structure
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during the long summer blooming period. Its low groundcover habit provides shelter for beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Boreal Starwort need?
- Boreal Starwort grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Boreal Starwort bloom?
- Boreal Starwort blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Boreal Starwort native?
- Boreal Starwort (Stellaria borealis) is native to CA, CO, CT, ID and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Boreal Starwort attract?
- Boreal Starwort draws bees and beetles.
- Is Boreal Starwort HOA-friendly?
- Boreal Starwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Boreal Starwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz