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Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade

Circaea canadensis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade (Circaea canadensis)
Photo: (c) Ken-ichi Ueda, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Broad-leaved enchanter's nightshade is a delicate woodland perennial with small white flowers that bloom through summer. This native groundcover forms modest clumps with heart-shaped leaves and tiny two-petaled flowers on slender spikes.

In an HOA neighborhood

Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade 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 wild, woodland appearance
  • Small inconspicuous flowers may look weedy
  • Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during its long summer bloom period. Seeds provide food for small birds and mammals.

Common questions

How much sun does Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade need?
Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade bloom?
Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade native?
Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade (Circaea canadensis) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 32 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade attract?
Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade draws bees and beetles.
Is Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade HOA-friendly?
Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade 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 Broadleaf Enchanter'S Nightshade? 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