Northern Starwort
Stellaria calycantha
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Stellaria calycantha is a low-growing native perennial that forms small clumps of delicate foliage in partially shaded areas. This diminutive wildflower produces tiny white blooms from May through July and thrives with moderate moisture. Its compact size makes it suitable for understory plantings and naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern Starwort 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 may appear weedy or unkempt
- Unknown leaf retention could mean messy dormant appearance
- Tiny flowers lack visual impact for formal landscaping
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring and summer blooming period. Its low growth habit provides ground-level habitat for beneficial insects.
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 Northern Starwort fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.