Herbwilliam
Ptilimnium capillaceum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 18 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mock bishop's weed is a delicate annual wildflower with feathery, thread-like foliage and small white flowers arranged in flat-topped clusters. It grows in a compact, upright form and blooms throughout the summer months. This native plant thrives in partial sun with moderate moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Herbwilliam 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.
- Fine foliage can appear weedy or unkempt
- Annual nature means gaps in planting each year
- Small size and delicate appearance may look like volunteer weed
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract a variety of beneficial insects including native bees, beetles, and flies. Its summer-long bloom period provides consistent nectar sources for pollinators.
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 Herbwilliam fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.