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Halberd-Leaved Tear-Thumb

Persicaria arifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Halberd-Leaved Tear-Thumb (Persicaria arifolia)
Photo: Robert H. Mohlenbrock. USDA NRCS. 1995. Northeast wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. Northeast National Technical Center, Chester. Courtesy of USDA NRCS Wetland Science Institute. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

12"–36" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

CT, DE, FL, GA and 23 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Persicaria arifolia is a perennial that forms neat clumps of arrow-shaped leaves in partially shaded areas. It produces spikes of small white or pink flowers from July through September, creating an attractive display in woodland gardens or shaded borders.

In an HOA neighborhood

Halberd-Leaved Tear-Thumb is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: mid zone, foundation, backyard only.

  • May spread more than expected
  • Can look sparse in early spring

Wildlife value

The summer blooms attract bees and beetles, providing nectar during the mid to late growing season when many other native plants have finished flowering.

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

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