Bristly Lady's-thumb
Persicaria longiseta
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
DE, MD, ND
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bristly lady's-thumb is a low-growing annual wildflower with small pink or white flower spikes that bloom from summer into fall. This native forb thrives in partial sun with moderate water needs and naturally reseeds each year. The plant has a somewhat weedy appearance but provides valuable late-season blooms when many other flowers have finished.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bristly Lady's-thumb 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.
- Has a distinctly weedy appearance
- Annual growth means patchy coverage
- Common name includes 'weed' associations
Wildlife value
The summer and fall blooms attract various bees and beneficial flies when other nectar sources may be scarce. As an annual that readily self-seeds, it can provide consistent habitat year after year.
Common questions
- How much sun does Bristly Lady's-thumb need?
- Bristly Lady's-thumb grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Bristly Lady's-thumb bloom?
- Bristly Lady's-thumb blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Bristly Lady's-thumb native?
- Bristly Lady's-thumb (Persicaria longiseta) is native to DE, MD, ND, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Bristly Lady's-thumb attract?
- Bristly Lady's-thumb draws bees and flies.
- Is Bristly Lady's-thumb HOA-friendly?
- Bristly Lady's-thumb 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 Bristly Lady's-thumb? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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