Hackelia virginiana, commonly known as Stickseed, is a native biennial wildflower found in woodlands, along trails, and in disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in partial to moderate shade and grows in a variety of soil conditions, making it a common plant in naturalized and woodland settings.
In its first year, Hackelia virginiana forms a basal rosette of broad, lance-shaped leaves. In its second year, it sends up a tall, branching stem (up to 4 feet) with small, pale blue to white flowers that bloom in summer. After flowering, it produces distinctive burr-like seed clusters covered in tiny hooked bristles, which easily stick to clothing and animal fur, aiding in seed dispersal.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Hackelia virginiana plays an ecological role by providing nectar for pollinators and food for wildlife. While its sticky seeds can be a nuisance, they contribute to the plant’s natural spread. It is best suited for woodland restoration projects and shaded pollinator gardens rather than cultivated landscapes, as it can self-seed aggressively.
Hackelia virginiana, commonly known as Stickseed, is a native biennial wildflower found in woodlands, along trails, and in disturbed areas throughout Illinois. It thrives in partial to moderate shade and grows in a variety of soil conditions, making it a common plant in naturalized and woodland settings.
In its first year, Hackelia virginiana forms a basal rosette of broad, lance-shaped leaves. In its second year, it sends up a tall, branching stem (up to 4 feet) with small, pale blue to white flowers that bloom in summer. After flowering, it produces distinctive burr-like seed clusters covered in tiny hooked bristles, which easily stick to clothing and animal fur, aiding in seed dispersal.
For Illinois native plant enthusiasts, Hackelia virginiana plays an ecological role by providing nectar for pollinators and food for wildlife. While its sticky seeds can be a nuisance, they contribute to the plant’s natural spread. It is best suited for woodland restoration projects and shaded pollinator gardens rather than cultivated landscapes, as it can self-seed aggressively.
Bloom: summer
Habitats: moist to slightly dry deciduous woodlands; powerline clearances in wooded areas; shady fence rows; thickets; woodland borders
Lifespan: biennial
Moisture: mesic
Plant type (height): forb (2 to 4 feet)
Requirements: partial sun to moderate shade
Soil: fertile loam
