Greenmolly
Kochia americana
Last reviewed: June 2026
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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Greenmolly need?
- Greenmolly grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Greenmolly bloom?
- Greenmolly blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Greenmolly native?
- Greenmolly (Kochia americana) is native to OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Greenmolly HOA-friendly?
- Greenmolly 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 Greenmolly? 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