Snow Squarestem
Melanthera nivea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Melanthera nivea (Snow Squarestem) is a native forb blooming June through October across the southeastern United States. This white-flowered plant attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles in full sun locations.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, FL, GA, IL and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Snow squarestem is a compact native perennial that produces small white daisy-like flowers from summer through fall. This well-behaved plant maintains a tidy, bushy form and provides long-lasting blooms in sunny locations with average moisture.
Growing Snow Squarestem
Grow Snow Squarestem in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Snow Squarestem is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- Goes dormant in winter leaving bare stems
Wildlife value
The extended bloom period attracts a diverse range of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles. Its flowers provide nectar from midsummer through the first frost.
Common questions
- When does Snow Squarestem bloom?
- Melanthera nivea blooms from June through October, providing late-season nectar when many other native plants have finished flowering.
- What pollinators visit Snow Squarestem?
- Snow Squarestem attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its white composite flowers during its extended bloom period.
- Where is Melanthera nivea native?
- Snow Squarestem is native to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina.
- What growing conditions does Snow Squarestem prefer?
- This native forb thrives in full sun with medium moisture levels, though it can adapt to various water conditions from wet to dry sites.
- Is Snow Squarestem HOA-friendly?
- Snow Squarestem is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Snow Squarestem? 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