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Greenmolly

Kochia americana

Last reviewed: June 2026

Greenmolly (Kochia americana)
Photo: Patrick Alexander from Las Cruces, NM / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

OR

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Kochia americana is a compact annual forb that forms a neat, rounded mound of fine-textured foliage. This drought-tolerant native thrives in full sun with minimal water, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers from July through September.

In an HOA neighborhood

Greenmolly takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Annual growth means gaps in landscape coverage
  • May be confused with weedy kochia species
  • Relatively unknown plant may raise HOA concerns

Wildlife value

While not heavily documented for pollinator support, this native plant likely provides some benefit to small insects and native bees during its blooming period.

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 Greenmolly fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.