Alkali Buttercup
Halerpestes cymbalaria
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 29 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Seaside buttercup is a low-growing native wildflower that forms small mats in moist areas. It produces small yellow buttercup flowers from May through July and thrives in partial sun conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Alkali Buttercup 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.
- Very small stature may appear weedy
- Uncommon plant unfamiliar to most homeowners
- May not provide expected 'landscaped' appearance
Wildlife value
This plant attracts bees and beetles during its spring and summer blooming period, providing nectar for native pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does Alkali Buttercup need?
- Alkali Buttercup grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Alkali Buttercup bloom?
- Alkali Buttercup blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Alkali Buttercup native?
- Alkali Buttercup (Halerpestes cymbalaria) is native to AR, AZ, CA, CO and 29 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Alkali Buttercup attract?
- Alkali Buttercup draws bees and beetles.
- Is Alkali Buttercup HOA-friendly?
- Alkali Buttercup 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 Alkali Buttercup? 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