Bristly Lady's-thumb
Polygonum caespitosum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
FL
Pollinators
bees, flies
Bristly lady's-thumb is a low-growing annual wildflower with small pink flower spikes that bloom from summer through fall. This native groundcover spreads naturally and provides seasonal color in informal garden areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bristly Lady's-thumb 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.
- Has weedy appearance and growth habit
- May self-seed aggressively
- Dies back completely as annual
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract bees and beneficial flies during the long blooming season from June through September.
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 Bristly Lady's-thumb fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.