Creeping Nailwort
Paronychia sessiliflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
1"–4" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO, MT, ND, NE and 6 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Creeping nailwort is a tiny, mat-forming native perennial that hugs the ground with dense foliage. It produces small white flowers during summer months and requires minimal water once established. This low-growing plant works well as a groundcover in dry, sunny locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Creeping 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 low growth may appear patchy or weedy
- Unknown leaf retention could create dormant season appearance issues
- Very informal appearance unlikely to meet front yard standards
Wildlife value
Supports beetles and flies with its summer blooms. The dense mat provides shelter for small beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Creeping Nailwort need?
- Creeping Nailwort grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Creeping Nailwort bloom?
- Creeping Nailwort blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Creeping Nailwort native?
- Creeping Nailwort (Paronychia sessiliflora) is native to CO, MT, ND, NE and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Creeping Nailwort attract?
- Creeping Nailwort draws beetles and flies.
- Is Creeping Nailwort HOA-friendly?
- Creeping 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 Creeping Nailwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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