Clasping Venus's-looking-glass
Triodanis perfoliata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Clasping Venus's-looking-glass (Triodanis perfoliata) is a native annual wildflower found across most US states that blooms May through July with small purple flowers. This drought-tolerant forb attracts bees and beetles in sunny garden locations.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 44 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Clasping venus's-looking-glass is a small annual wildflower with distinctive cup-shaped leaves that wrap around the stem. It produces small purple or blue flowers from late spring through summer and thrives in sunny, dry conditions. This delicate native plant typically grows 4-12 inches tall with a narrow, upright habit.
Growing Clasping Venus's-looking-glass
Grow Clasping Venus's-looking-glass in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 2 to 6 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Clasping Venus's-looking-glass 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 and easily mistaken for a weed
- Annual nature means it disappears entirely each year
- Informal wildflower appearance doesn't fit typical landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during its blooming period from May through July. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for pollinators in early to mid-summer.
Common questions
- When does Clasping Venus's-looking-glass bloom?
- Triodanis perfoliata blooms from May through July, producing small purple to violet flowers that attract native bees and beetles.
- Where is Clasping Venus's-looking-glass native?
- This wildflower is native to most US states from coast to coast, including Alabama through Wyoming, making it one of the most widely distributed native annual forbs.
- What growing conditions does Clasping Venus's-looking-glass prefer?
- Triodanis perfoliata thrives in full sun locations with low to moderate water needs, making it an excellent choice for drought-tolerant native plant gardens and disturbed soils.
- What pollinators visit Clasping Venus's-looking-glass?
- The flowers attract various native bees and beetles, providing nectar and pollen resources during the late spring and summer blooming period.
- Is Clasping Venus's-looking-glass HOA-friendly?
- Clasping Venus's-looking-glass 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 Clasping Venus's-looking-glass? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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