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Cornel-leaf Whitetop

Doellingeria infirma

Last reviewed: June 2026

Cornel-leaf Whitetop (Doellingeria infirma)
Photo: Fritzflohrreynolds / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

24"–60" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Native to

AL, CT, DE, FL and 14 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Cornel-leaf whitetop is a native perennial that produces clusters of small white daisy-like flowers from summer through fall. This upright wildflower grows 2-5 feet tall with a narrow spread, making it suitable for naturalized areas and pollinator gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Cornel-leaf Whitetop 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.

  • Has a wild, informal appearance that may be perceived as weedy
  • Relatively tall and can look unkempt between blooming cycles
  • Name includes 'whitetop' which some associate with invasive species

Wildlife value

This plant attracts a diverse range of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles during its extended blooming period. The seeds also provide food for birds in late fall and winter.

Common questions

How much sun does Cornel-leaf Whitetop need?
Cornel-leaf Whitetop grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Cornel-leaf Whitetop bloom?
Cornel-leaf Whitetop blooms in July, August, September, and October.
Where is Cornel-leaf Whitetop native?
Cornel-leaf Whitetop (Doellingeria infirma) is native to AL, CT, DE, FL and 14 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Cornel-leaf Whitetop attract?
Cornel-leaf Whitetop draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Is Cornel-leaf Whitetop HOA-friendly?
Cornel-leaf Whitetop 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 Cornel-leaf Whitetop? 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