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Shade Mudflower

Micranthemum umbrosum

Last reviewed: July 2026

Shade Mudflower (Micranthemum umbrosum)
Photo: Alex Abair / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

part shade

Water

high

Size

1"–6" H × 2"–8" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, FL, GA and 7 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Shade mudflower is a low-growing native groundcover that forms small mats in moist, shaded areas. This tiny perennial produces delicate flowers from June through September and thrives in consistently wet soils where few other plants can establish.

In an HOA neighborhood

Shade Mudflower takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Requires constantly wet conditions that may create drainage concerns
  • Very small stature may appear sparse or incomplete
  • Specialized wetland plant may look out of place in typical landscaping

Wildlife value

While specific pollinator data is limited, this plant likely supports small native insects and provides ground-level habitat for beneficial invertebrates in wetland edges.

Common questions

How much sun does Shade Mudflower need?
Shade Mudflower grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Shade Mudflower bloom?
Shade Mudflower blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Shade Mudflower native?
Shade Mudflower (Micranthemum umbrosum) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Shade Mudflower HOA-friendly?
Shade Mudflower 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 Shade Mudflower? 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