Small Enchanter's Nightshade
Circaea alpina
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Small enchanter's nightshade is a delicate woodland perennial that forms low, spreading patches in shaded areas. It produces tiny white flowers on slender stems during summer months and has heart-shaped leaves. This diminutive native works well as a groundcover in naturalized shade gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Small Enchanter's Nightshade 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 and inconspicuous appearance
- Can look sparse or weedy
- May be mistaken for a weed due to common name
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract bees and flies during the summer blooming period. Seeds may provide food for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife.
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 Small Enchanter's Nightshade fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.