Corchoropsis: An Uncommon Annual You’ve Probably Never Heard Of
If you’re scratching your head wondering what on earth a corchoropsis is, you’re not alone! Corchoropsis crenata var. crenata is one of those plants that exists in the botanical world but rarely makes it into our gardens—and for good reason.
What Exactly Is Corchoropsis?
Corchoropsis is an annual forb, which is just a fancy way of saying it’s a non-woody herbaceous plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season. Think of it as a distant cousin to your garden herbs and wildflowers, but without the charm or usefulness that makes those plants garden-worthy.
This particular variety belongs to a group of plants that botanists classify as waifs—essentially botanical wanderers that occasionally show up in new places but don’t stick around long enough to establish permanent populations. It’s like that friend who visits once and then disappears for years.
Where Does Corchoropsis Call Home?
Currently, corchoropsis has been spotted in Massachusetts and New Jersey, though its appearances are sporadic and temporary. As a non-native species that hasn’t naturalized in North America, it’s more of a botanical curiosity than a reliable garden resident.
Should You Plant Corchoropsis in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting—or rather, uninteresting. While corchoropsis isn’t known to be invasive or harmful, there’s precious little information about how to actually grow it successfully. More importantly, as gardeners increasingly focus on supporting local ecosystems, there are much better options available.
Better Alternatives for Your Garden
Instead of gambling on an obscure annual with unknown growing requirements, consider these native alternatives that will actually thrive in northeastern gardens:
- Wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) – A native annual that attracts pollinators and has aromatic foliage
- New England aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) – Provides late-season color and supports native wildlife
- Wild columbine (Aquilegia canadensis) – Delicate flowers that hummingbirds love
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) – Cheerful blooms that birds and pollinators adore
The Bottom Line on Corchoropsis
While corchoropsis might sound exotic and intriguing, it’s essentially a garden ghost—present in name but absent in practical application. Without reliable growing information, unclear benefits to wildlife, and no established role in North American landscapes, it’s more of a botanical footnote than a garden star.
Your garden space is precious, so why not fill it with plants that are proven performers? Native species not only have better-documented growing requirements but also support the birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects that make gardens truly come alive. Save the botanical mysteries for the professionals, and stick with time-tested natives that will reward your efforts with reliable beauty and ecological benefits.
