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Madwort

Asperugo procumbens

Last reviewed: August 2026

Madwort (Asperugo procumbens)
Photo: Robert Flogaus-Faust / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Toxicity unknown

Madwort (Asperugo procumbens) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

4"–12" H × 8"–16" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Native alternatives to Madwort

Madwort is not native to the United States. These natives fill a similar role in a planting, matched on bloom season, bloom color and mature size.

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Madwort is a low-growing annual forb that forms spreading mats 4-12 inches tall. It produces small flowers from spring through late summer and prefers partial shade with moderate water needs. This plant has a somewhat sprawling, informal growth habit.

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In an HOA neighborhood

Madwort 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.

  • Sprawling growth habit appears weedy
  • Annual nature creates seasonal gaps
  • Common name 'madwort' suggests weedy characteristics

Wildlife value

Limited wildlife value information is available for this species. As an annual forb with extended bloom period, it may provide some nectar resources for small pollinators.

Common questions

How much sun does Madwort need?
Madwort grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Madwort bloom?
Madwort blooms in April, May, June, July, and August.
Is Madwort HOA-friendly?
Madwort takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

See all plant problem guides

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