Dotted Smartweed
Persicaria punctata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
12"–40" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 42 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Dotted smartweed is a native annual wildflower that produces small pink or white flower spikes from summer through early fall. This moisture-loving plant thrives in wet soils and can grow quite tall, making it better suited for naturalized areas than formal gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dotted Smartweed 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 weedy and informal
- Can grow quite tall and rangy
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees, flies, and beetles for nectar and pollen. Seeds provide food for waterfowl and other birds in fall.
Common questions
- How much sun does Dotted Smartweed need?
- Dotted Smartweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Dotted Smartweed bloom?
- Dotted Smartweed blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Dotted Smartweed native?
- Dotted Smartweed (Persicaria punctata) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 42 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Dotted Smartweed attract?
- Dotted Smartweed draws bees, flies, and beetles.
- Is Dotted Smartweed HOA-friendly?
- Dotted Smartweed 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 Dotted Smartweed? 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