Sand Bittercress
Cardamine parviflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 31 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Sand bittercress is a small annual wildflower that forms compact rosettes of delicate leaves. It produces tiny white flowers in spring and early summer, then completes its lifecycle quickly. This low-growing plant thrives in sandy soils and sunny locations with minimal water needs.
In an HOA neighborhood
Sand Bittercress 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 look like a weed
- Dies back completely in summer leaving bare spots
- Annual nature creates inconsistent appearance
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during its spring to early summer bloom period. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for small 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 Sand Bittercress fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.