Smooth Hedgenettle
Stachys tenuifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 8"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, CT, IA, IL and 24 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth hedgenettle is a native perennial wildflower with upright stems and spikes of small white or pale pink flowers. It blooms from summer through early fall and forms modest clumps that spread gradually over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth Hedgenettle 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.
- Looks too wild and weedy for formal landscapes
- Name includes 'nettle' which may concern neighbors
- Spreads gradually and can appear unkempt
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various bees and butterflies throughout the long blooming season. The plant provides nectar from June through September, making it valuable for pollinators during the peak summer months.
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 Smooth Hedgenettle fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.