Grass-of-Parnassus
Parnassia palustris
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 13 more states
Pollinators
flies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Parnassia palustris is a small perennial wildflower that produces delicate white blooms from June through August. This compact plant stays under a foot tall and requires consistently moist to wet soil conditions to thrive.
In an HOA neighborhood
Grass-of-Parnassus takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires bog-like conditions that are difficult to maintain
- Very small size makes it appear sparse in typical landscaping
- Specialized wetland plant looks out of place in conventional gardens
Wildlife value
The flowers attract flies and beetles, which serve as important pollinators for this native species.
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 Grass-of-Parnassus fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.