Devil'S Shoestring
Polygonum erectum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 36 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Erect knotweed is a small native annual with narrow leaves and tiny white to pinkish flowers that bloom from summer into fall. This compact plant forms neat, upright clumps and tolerates poor soils and dry conditions well.
In an HOA neighborhood
Devil'S Shoestring 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.
- Looks like a weed to most homeowners
- Self-seeds aggressively and can spread beyond intended areas
- Very informal appearance doesn't match typical landscaping standards
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles throughout the long blooming season. Seeds provide food for small birds and the foliage supports some native moth caterpillars.
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.
Does Devil'S Shoestring fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.