Rock Harlequin
Capnoides sempervirens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CT, GA, IA, IL and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Rock harlequin is a delicate wildflower with finely divided, feathery foliage and small pink and yellow tubular flowers. This compact perennial thrives in partial shade and produces blooms from late spring through summer. The plant has an airy, graceful appearance that works well in woodland gardens or shaded borders.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rock Harlequin 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 delicate appearance may look weedy to some
- Completely disappears in winter leaving bare spots
- Small size makes it easily overlooked among other plants
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract bees and butterflies during the long blooming period from May through July. This native plant provides nectar for pollinators when many other shade plants are not flowering.
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 Rock Harlequin fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.