False Pennyroyal
Trichostema brachiatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
9"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CT and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
False Pennyroyal is a compact annual wildflower with small, aromatic leaves and tiny blue to purple flowers that bloom from summer through late fall. This low-growing native forms neat mounds and provides extended color in the garden with minimal water requirements.
In an HOA neighborhood
False Pennyroyal is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Requires seasonal replanting
- May have messy dieback
Wildlife value
This plant is particularly valuable for native bees and other small pollinators during its long blooming season from June through November.
Common questions
- How much sun does False Pennyroyal need?
- False Pennyroyal grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does False Pennyroyal bloom?
- False Pennyroyal blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is False Pennyroyal native?
- False Pennyroyal (Trichostema brachiatum) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CT and 27 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does False Pennyroyal attract?
- False Pennyroyal draws bees.
- Is False Pennyroyal HOA-friendly?
- False Pennyroyal is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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 False Pennyroyal fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.