Feverwort
Triosteum perfoliatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
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.
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 Feverwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.