Lesser Clearweed
Pilea fontana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, CT, FL, GA and 19 more states
Lesser clearweed is a small annual native herb that grows in partially shaded areas with medium moisture. It produces tiny inconspicuous flowers from summer through early fall and typically reaches only 4-12 inches tall with a compact spread.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lesser Clearweed 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 stature makes it nearly invisible in landscaping
- Annual nature means gaps when plants die back
- Common name includes 'weed' which creates negative perception
Wildlife value
This plant provides habitat and food for small insects and arthropods, though it is not a major pollinator plant due to its tiny, wind-pollinated flowers.
Common questions
- How much sun does Lesser Clearweed need?
- Lesser Clearweed grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Lesser Clearweed bloom?
- Lesser Clearweed blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Lesser Clearweed native?
- Lesser Clearweed (Pilea fontana) is native to AL, CT, FL, GA and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Lesser Clearweed HOA-friendly?
- Lesser Clearweed 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 Lesser Clearweed? 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