Small Henbit
Veronica hederifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
DE
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Small henbit is a low-growing annual wildflower that forms spreading mats of small, rounded leaves. It produces tiny blue or purple flowers in spring and thrives in partially shaded areas with moderate moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Small Henbit 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.
- Often considered a lawn weed
- Spreads aggressively and can look unkempt
- Annual growth pattern creates bare spots when plants die back
Wildlife value
This plant provides early spring nectar for bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. Its low growth habit also offers ground cover habitat for beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Small Henbit need?
- Small Henbit grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Small Henbit bloom?
- Small Henbit blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Small Henbit native?
- Small Henbit (Veronica hederifolia) is native to DE, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Small Henbit attract?
- Small Henbit draws bees and beetles.
- Is Small Henbit HOA-friendly?
- Small Henbit 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 Small Henbit? 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