Heart-pod Hoary Cress
Lepidium draba
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
NV, SD, WV
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Heart-pod hoary cress is a low-growing perennial forb that produces clusters of small white flowers in late spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant plant spreads readily and can form dense colonies over time. It requires minimal water once established and thrives in full sun conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Heart-pod Hoary Cress 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.
- Classified as invasive weed in many areas
- Aggressive spreading habit can overtake other plants
- Appearance considered weedy by most standards
Wildlife value
The white flower clusters attract bees and beetles during the May-June bloom period. Its early season blooms provide nectar when many other plants are not yet 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 Heart-pod Hoary Cress fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.