German-knotweed
Scleranthus annuus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
2"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
NJ
Browse plants for this ecoregion
German-knotweed is a small, low-growing annual herb that forms compact mats of tiny, narrow leaves. It produces inconspicuous greenish flowers from late spring through fall and typically grows in poor, sandy soils.
In an HOA neighborhood
German-knotweed 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 small and inconspicuous appearance lacks ornamental appeal
- Annual nature means gaps and bare spots each year
- Name includes 'knotweed' which has negative associations
Wildlife value
This plant provides minimal wildlife value as it has very small, wind-pollinated flowers that don't attract significant pollinators or other beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does German-knotweed need?
- German-knotweed grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does German-knotweed bloom?
- German-knotweed blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
- Where is German-knotweed native?
- German-knotweed (Scleranthus annuus) is native to NJ, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is German-knotweed HOA-friendly?
- German-knotweed 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 German-knotweed? 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