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Small Venus' Looking-glass

Triodanis biflora

Last reviewed: July 2026

Small Venus' Looking-glass (Triodanis biflora)
Photo: (c) Melissa McMasters, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–16" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

FL

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Small venus' looking-glass is a delicate annual wildflower that grows 4-16 inches tall with tiny purple or blue flowers from April through June. This native wildflower thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements, making it well-suited for low-maintenance landscapes. Its compact size and spring blooms add subtle color to naturalized areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Small Venus' Looking-glass 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 can appear weedy to untrained eyes
  • Annual growth means gaps in planting when not present
  • May not provide consistent year-round appearance HOAs expect

Wildlife value

This native wildflower attracts bees and beetles during its spring blooming period. Its seeds also provide food for small birds and other wildlife.

Common questions

How much sun does Small Venus' Looking-glass need?
Small Venus' Looking-glass grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Small Venus' Looking-glass bloom?
Small Venus' Looking-glass blooms in April, May, and June.
Where is Small Venus' Looking-glass native?
Small Venus' Looking-glass (Triodanis biflora) is native to FL, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Small Venus' Looking-glass attract?
Small Venus' Looking-glass draws bees and beetles.
Is Small Venus' Looking-glass HOA-friendly?
Small Venus' Looking-glass 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 Venus' Looking-glass? 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