Groundnut
Panax trifolius
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CT, DE, GA, IN and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Dwarf ginseng is a delicate woodland wildflower that forms small clumps of three-leaflet foliage topped with tiny white flower clusters in summer. This diminutive native perennial thrives in partially shaded areas with consistent moisture and goes dormant in winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Groundnut 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.
- Extremely small size makes it nearly invisible in landscape
- Disappears completely when dormant
- Looks more like a wildflower than cultivated plant
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and flies during the summer blooming period. Seeds may provide food for small woodland birds.
Common questions
- How much sun does Groundnut need?
- Groundnut grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Groundnut bloom?
- Groundnut blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Groundnut native?
- Groundnut (Panax trifolius) is native to CT, DE, GA, IN and 18 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Groundnut attract?
- Groundnut draws bees and flies.
- Is Groundnut HOA-friendly?
- Groundnut 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 Groundnut? 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