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Hairy-pod Pepperwort

Lepidium lasiocarpum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Hairy-pod Pepperwort (Lepidium lasiocarpum)
Photo: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 3"–8" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, NM and 3 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Hairy-pod pepperwort is a small native annual that forms low, compact patches in spring. It produces tiny white flowers from April through June before completing its lifecycle. This diminutive wildflower thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements.

In an HOA neighborhood

Hairy-pod Pepperwort 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 size makes it appear weedy
  • Annual lifecycle creates gaps in landscaping
  • Unknown appearance after blooming period

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring blooming period. As an early-season annual, it provides nectar when few other plants are flowering.

Common questions

How much sun does Hairy-pod Pepperwort need?
Hairy-pod Pepperwort grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Hairy-pod Pepperwort bloom?
Hairy-pod Pepperwort blooms in April, May, and June.
Where is Hairy-pod Pepperwort native?
Hairy-pod Pepperwort (Lepidium lasiocarpum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, NM and 3 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Hairy-pod Pepperwort attract?
Hairy-pod Pepperwort draws bees and beetles.
Is Hairy-pod Pepperwort HOA-friendly?
Hairy-pod Pepperwort 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 Hairy-pod Pepperwort? 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