Twinflower
Linnaea borealis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–8" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Twinflower is a delicate native groundcover that forms low carpets of small, rounded leaves with pairs of tiny pink bell-shaped flowers in summer. This charming woodland plant spreads slowly by trailing stems and thrives in shaded areas where few other plants will grow. It goes dormant in winter, leaving behind a network of woody stems.
In an HOA neighborhood
Twinflower 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 sparse and woody when dormant
- Very informal woodland appearance
- Extremely low profile may appear patchy
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during its June-July bloom period. Its low, dense growth provides cover for small woodland creatures and insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Twinflower need?
- Twinflower grows best in shade conditions.
- When does Twinflower bloom?
- Twinflower blooms in June and July.
- Where is Twinflower native?
- Twinflower (Linnaea borealis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 27 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Twinflower attract?
- Twinflower draws bees and beetles.
- Is Twinflower HOA-friendly?
- Twinflower 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 Twinflower? 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