Smooth Hedgenettle
Stachys tenuifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Smooth Hedgenettle is a native perennial forb found across eastern and central North America that blooms from June through September with purple flower spikes attractive to bees and butterflies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Smooth Hedgenettle as toxic to livestock.
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.
Growing Smooth Hedgenettle
Grow Smooth Hedgenettle in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 8 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- Where does Smooth Hedgenettle naturally grow?
- Smooth Hedgenettle is native to 28 states across eastern and central North America, from Maine south to South Carolina and west to Texas, Kansas, and Minnesota.
- When does Stachys tenuifolia bloom?
- Smooth Hedgenettle produces its characteristic purple flower spikes from June through September, providing nectar for pollinators throughout the summer months.
- What pollinators visit Smooth Hedgenettle?
- The tubular purple flowers of Stachys tenuifolia attract both bees and butterflies, making it a valuable addition to pollinator gardens.
- What growing conditions does Smooth Hedgenettle prefer?
- This adaptable native forb tolerates a wide range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and grows well in medium moisture soils, though it can adapt to both wet and dry conditions.
- Is Smooth Hedgenettle toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Smooth Hedgenettle as toxic to livestock.
- Is Smooth Hedgenettle HOA-friendly?
- Smooth Hedgenettle 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 Smooth Hedgenettle? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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