Lopseed
Phryma leptostachya
Last reviewed: June 2026
Phryma leptostachya (Lopseed) is a native North American forb blooming June through August with small white flowers. This shade-tolerant plant grows throughout eastern and central United States, attracting bees and butterflies.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Lopseed is a shade-loving native perennial that forms compact clumps with delicate spikes of small white flowers. This woodland plant thrives in partially shaded areas and produces its blooms throughout the summer months. It's well-suited for naturalized gardens and areas that receive limited direct sunlight.
Growing Lopseed
Grow Lopseed in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Lopseed 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.
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
- Delicate appearance may be perceived as weedy
- Unknown leaf retention creates uncertainty about winter appearance
Wildlife value
The summer flowers attract bees and butterflies, providing nectar during peak growing season. As a native plant, it supports local ecosystem relationships that non-native alternatives cannot.
Common questions
- When does Lopseed bloom?
- Phryma leptostachya blooms from June through August, producing small white flowers on slender spikes.
- What pollinators visit Lopseed?
- Lopseed attracts bees and butterflies during its summer blooming period.
- Where is Lopseed native?
- Phryma leptostachya is native to most eastern and central US states, from Maine to Florida and west to Wyoming and Texas.
- What growing conditions does Lopseed prefer?
- Lopseed thrives in partial shade to full shade with medium moisture levels, making it excellent for woodland gardens.
- Is Lopseed HOA-friendly?
- Lopseed 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 Lopseed? 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