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Narrow-leaf Montia

Montia linearis

Last reviewed: July 2026

Narrow-leaf Montia (Montia linearis)
Photo: (c) Gail A Baker, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Gail A Baker

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

2"–12" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

AZ, CA, ID, MT and 6 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Narrow-leaf montia is a small annual wildflower that forms low, delicate mats with tiny white or pink flowers in spring. This diminutive plant grows close to the ground and produces narrow, succulent-like leaves. It completes its lifecycle quickly, blooming from March through May before setting seed.

In an HOA neighborhood

Narrow-leaf Montia takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Very small stature may appear weedy
  • Annual lifecycle creates gaps when plant dies
  • Unknown winter appearance adds uncertainty

Wildlife value

This plant provides early season nectar for small bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Its small stature makes it most valuable as part of diverse plantings rather than a standalone wildlife feature.

Common questions

How much sun does Narrow-leaf Montia need?
Narrow-leaf Montia grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Narrow-leaf Montia bloom?
Narrow-leaf Montia blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Narrow-leaf Montia native?
Narrow-leaf Montia (Montia linearis) is native to AZ, CA, ID, MT and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Narrow-leaf Montia attract?
Narrow-leaf Montia draws bees and beetles.
Is Narrow-leaf Montia HOA-friendly?
Narrow-leaf Montia 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 Narrow-leaf Montia? 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