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Coastal Plain Nailwort

Paronychia herniarioides

Last reviewed: July 2026

Coastal Plain Nailwort (Paronychia herniarioides)
Photo: Dsandii / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

2"–8" H × 3"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, FL, GA, NC and 1 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Coastal plain nailwort is a low-growing ground-hugging perennial that forms dense mats of tiny leaves. This diminutive native plant produces small clusters of inconspicuous flowers from late spring through fall and thrives in sandy, well-drained soils with minimal water.

In an HOA neighborhood

Coastal Plain Nailwort 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.

  • Extremely small size may appear weedy or unkempt
  • Dense mat growth pattern looks informal
  • Tiny flowers are barely noticeable

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during its long blooming season from May through September.

Common questions

How much sun does Coastal Plain Nailwort need?
Coastal Plain Nailwort grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Coastal Plain Nailwort bloom?
Coastal Plain Nailwort blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
Where is Coastal Plain Nailwort native?
Coastal Plain Nailwort (Paronychia herniarioides) is native to AL, FL, GA, NC and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Coastal Plain Nailwort attract?
Coastal Plain Nailwort draws bees and beetles.
Is Coastal Plain Nailwort HOA-friendly?
Coastal Plain Nailwort 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 Coastal Plain Nailwort? 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