Small Venus’ Looking-Glass

(Triodanis biflora)

Small Venus’ Looking-Glass (Triodanis biflora)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Triodanis biflora, commonly known as Small Venus’ Looking-glass, is an annual herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, and roadsides across the Americas. It is a small plant, usually reaching 6-12 inches (15-30 cm) in height, with a slender stem and thin, serrate, sessile leaves arranged alternately. The solitary, bell-shaped flowers are blue or purple, blooming from late spring to early summer and are quite showy despite the plant’s diminutive size. The fruit is a capsule that splits open when mature, releasing the seeds.

Small Venus’ Looking-glass is valued for its delicate appearance and is often used in wildflower gardens and naturalized areas. It is a low-maintenance plant that prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It is drought-tolerant once established and does not require frequent watering. While it is not commonly available in nurseries, it can be grown from seed and is a charming addition to informal plantings and meadow gardens. It has no major disease or pest problems, but can self-seed prolifically under ideal conditions, which should be considered when planting.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-1.5 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate, Rapid
  • Flower Color: Blue, Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Fast

Common Uses

Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Native to open woodlands, grasslands, and roadsides across the Americas

Other Names

Common Names: Clasping Venus’ Looking Glass, Purple Venus’ Looking Glass

Scientific Names: , Triodanis biflora,

GBIF Accepted Name: