Feverwort
Triosteum perfoliatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Triosteum perfoliatum (Feverwort) is a native forb found throughout eastern and central United States that blooms in May and June. This shade-tolerant wildflower attracts bees and flies with its small yellowish flowers.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Feverwort is a native perennial that forms clumps of broad, paired leaves that appear to be pierced by the stem. It produces small, inconspicuous flowers in late spring followed by orange-red berries that persist into fall.
Growing Feverwort
Grow Feverwort in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Feverwort 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.
- Informal appearance may look weedy to some
- Can appear unkempt when not actively growing
- Unusual leaf arrangement may be seen as unrefined
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and flies for pollination. The colorful berries provide food for birds and small mammals in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- Where does Triosteum perfoliatum naturally grow?
- Feverwort is native to much of the eastern and central United States, from Massachusetts south to Georgia and west to Kansas and Texas.
- When does Feverwort bloom?
- Triosteum perfoliatum typically blooms during May and June, producing small yellowish flowers in the leaf axils.
- What pollinators visit Feverwort?
- Bees and flies are the primary pollinators of Triosteum perfoliatum, attracted to its modest but accessible flowers.
- What growing conditions does Feverwort prefer?
- This native forb thrives in partial shade to full shade conditions with medium moisture levels, making it suitable for woodland gardens and naturalized areas.
- Is Feverwort HOA-friendly?
- Feverwort 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 Feverwort? 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