Carolina Grass Of Parnassus
Parnassia caroliniana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
FL, NC, SC
Pollinators
flies, beetles
Carolina grass of Parnassus is a delicate native wildflower that produces small white flowers on slender stems from late summer through fall. This compact perennial forms neat clumps in partially shaded, moist areas and works well as a groundcover or accent plant in naturalized gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Carolina Grass Of Parnassus 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.
- Appears too wild and weedy for formal landscapes
- Small stature makes it look unkempt in maintained beds
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional
Wildlife value
The white flowers attract flies and beetles during late summer and fall blooming periods. This native plant supports local pollinator populations when many other flowers have finished blooming.
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 Carolina Grass Of Parnassus fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.