Eight-petal Mountain-avens
Dryas octopetala
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–6" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
NH
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Eight-petal mountain-avens is a low-growing evergreen groundcover that forms dense mats of small, leathery leaves. It produces charming white flowers with eight petals during summer months, followed by feathery seed heads. This alpine plant is extremely hardy and drought-tolerant once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Eight-petal Mountain-avens 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.
- Very uncommon plant that may appear weedy to unfamiliar neighbors
- Feathery seed heads can look unkempt
- Extremely low growth may be perceived as patchy or sparse
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and beetles for pollination. The dense mat formation can provide shelter for small beneficial insects.
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 Eight-petal Mountain-avens fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.