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Pellitory-of-the-wall

Parietaria judaica

Also known as Wall Pellitory, Spreading Pellitory

herbaceousβ›… part shadeπŸ’§ low water❄ Hardy: Zone 7a – Zone 11b

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A low-growing, spreading perennial with small heart-shaped leaves and inconspicuous greenish flowers. Commonly found on old walls and rocky ground, it tolerates poor conditions and requires minimal care.

Why grow it

Pellitory-of-the-wall offers a low-maintenance ground cover or edging plant for difficult sites where many species struggle, such as poor soils, dry slopes, or between masonry. Unlike more aggressive spreading plants, it remains modest in vigor and self-seeds moderately rather than invasively. Its ability to establish in crevices and marginal ground makes it useful for erosion control or softening hardscape edges without requiring soil amendment or supplemental water once established.

Watch out for

This plant spreads readily by seed and can become persistent in garden beds if not monitored, particularly in mild climates. Its small flowers and foliage are easily overlooked during maintenance, which may lead to accidental removal or competition with intentionally planted neighbors. In confined spaces, periodic thinning may be necessary to prevent it from overwhelming adjacent plantings.

Overview

Form
Spreading
Growth Rate
fast
Size
0.5–1.5β€² tall Γ— 1–3β€² wide
Dormancy
evergreen
Family
Urticaceae
Medicinal

Native Range

Mediterranean and Middle East

Seasonality

Bloom Season

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D

Season of Interest

SpringSummer

Similar ground covers you might consider:

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Companion Planting

Plants well with