How much sun does Chocolateweed need?

Chocolateweed grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Chocolateweed bloom?

Chocolateweed blooms in June, July, August, and September.

Where is Chocolateweed native?

Chocolateweed (Melochia corchorifolia) is native to SC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Chocolateweed attract?

Chocolateweed draws bees and beetles.

Is Chocolateweed HOA-friendly?

Chocolateweed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Chocolateweed

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Melochia corchorifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–24" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Western Gulf Coastal Plain

Chocolateweed is a native annual herb that grows 1-3 feet tall with small flowers blooming from summer through early fall. Despite its common name, it produces attractive small blooms that support various pollinators throughout the growing season.

In an HOA neighborhood

Chocolateweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

Common name includes 'weed' which creates negative perception
Annual growth habit means gaps and bare spots in landscape
Can appear scraggly or unkempt compared to typical landscaping plants

Wildlife value

This plant attracts bees and beetles during its extended bloom period from June through September. As a native annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for local pollinators.

Common questions

How much sun does Chocolateweed need?: Chocolateweed grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Chocolateweed bloom?: Chocolateweed blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Chocolateweed native?: Chocolateweed (Melochia corchorifolia) is native to SC, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Chocolateweed attract?: Chocolateweed draws bees and beetles.
Is Chocolateweed HOA-friendly?: Chocolateweed 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 Chocolateweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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