Where does Rivina humilis naturally grow?

Pigeonberry is native to Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, typically growing in woodland edges, disturbed areas, and along fence rows.

When does Pigeonberry bloom?

Rivina humilis has an extended blooming period from March through November, producing small racemes of tiny white flowers that develop into colorful red berries.

What growing conditions does Rivina humilis prefer?

Pigeonberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates drought conditions once established, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.

Is Pigeonberry HOA-friendly?

Pigeonberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Pigeonberry

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Rivina humilis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Rivina humilis (Pigeonberry) is a native perennial forb found across the southern United States from Arizona to Florida. This drought-tolerant plant produces small white flowers from March through November followed by bright red berries.

Pigeonberry (Rivina humilis) — Photo: (c) Meghan Cassidy, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Meghan Cassidy

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–18" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Native to

AR, AZ, FL, LA and 3 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Chihuahuan Deserts Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains Edwards Plateau Southern Texas Plains Texas Blackland Prairies East Central Texas Plains Western Gulf Coastal Plain South Central Plains Sonoran Basin and Range

Rivina humilis is a compact native perennial that produces small white flowers followed by bright red berries from spring through fall. This low-growing plant works well as groundcover or in naturalized areas, maintaining an informal appearance throughout the growing season.

Growing Pigeonberry

Grow Pigeonberry in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 18 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Pigeonberry is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The berries provide food for birds, while the long blooming period offers nectar for small pollinators and beneficial insects.

Common questions

Where does Rivina humilis naturally grow?: Pigeonberry is native to Arkansas, Arizona, Florida, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, typically growing in woodland edges, disturbed areas, and along fence rows.
When does Pigeonberry bloom?: Rivina humilis has an extended blooming period from March through November, producing small racemes of tiny white flowers that develop into colorful red berries.
What growing conditions does Rivina humilis prefer?: Pigeonberry thrives in full sun to partial shade and tolerates drought conditions once established, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
Is Pigeonberry HOA-friendly?: Pigeonberry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Pigeonberry fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.

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