Rough False Pennyroyal
Hedeoma hispida
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, wasps
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rough false pennyroyal is a small, aromatic annual herb that forms low, spreading mats in sunny locations. It produces tiny white or pale purple flowers from June through August and thrives in dry conditions with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rough False Pennyroyal 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 size makes it appear weedy
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage
- Informal wild appearance doesn't suit maintained landscapes
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beneficial wasps during the summer months. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for smaller pollinators.
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 Rough False Pennyroyal fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.