John's-cabbage
Hydrophyllum virginianum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 8"–16" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AR, CT, DE, IA and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
John's-cabbage is a native woodland perennial with broad, deeply lobed leaves and clusters of small white to pale purple flowers in late spring. It forms a low, spreading groundcover that thrives in shaded areas with consistent moisture. The plant goes dormant in late summer, disappearing completely until the following spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
John's-cabbage 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.
- Completely disappears by mid-summer leaving bare ground
- Informal woodland appearance may look unkempt
- Large lobed leaves can appear weedy to some
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during its May to June bloom period. The foliage provides cover for small woodland creatures and insects.
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 John's-cabbage fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.