Poorjoe
Diodia teres
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Poorjoe is a low-growing annual wildflower that forms small mats with tiny white or pink flowers. It blooms prolifically from late spring through fall, creating a delicate carpet effect in sunny areas. This drought-tolerant native thrives in poor soils and requires minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Poorjoe 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.
- Common name 'poorjoe' suggests weedy appearance
- Annual habit creates gaps when plants die back
- Very informal growth pattern looks unmanicured
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles throughout the long blooming season. Its low growth habit provides ground-level habitat for small beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Poorjoe need?
- Poorjoe grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Poorjoe bloom?
- Poorjoe blooms in May, June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Poorjoe native?
- Poorjoe (Diodia teres) is native to AL, AR, CO, CT and 31 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Poorjoe attract?
- Poorjoe draws bees and beetles.
- Is Poorjoe HOA-friendly?
- Poorjoe 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 Poorjoe? 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