American Basketflower
Plectocephalus americanus
Last reviewed: July 2026
Plectocephalus americanus (American Basketflower) is a native wildflower blooming March through August across Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Kansas, Missouri, and Arizona. This drought-tolerant forb attracts butterflies and bees.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
18"–60" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, AZ, KS, LA and 3 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
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American Basketflower is a tall annual wildflower native to Texas with distinctive thistle-like purple blooms from spring through summer. This upright plant forms a narrow column and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
Growing American Basketflower
Grow American Basketflower in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 18 to 60 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
American Basketflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- May flop without support
- Best in less formal zones
Wildlife value
The long blooming season provides nectar for butterflies and native bees from March through August. The seeds also attract birds in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- When does American Basketflower bloom?
- Plectocephalus americanus blooms from March through August, providing nectar for pollinators throughout spring and summer.
- Where is American Basketflower native?
- American Basketflower is native to the south-central United States, including Arkansas, Arizona, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas.
- What pollinators visit American Basketflower?
- Butterflies and bees are the primary pollinators of Plectocephalus americanus, attracted to its purple flower heads.
- What growing conditions does American Basketflower prefer?
- This native forb thrives in full sun conditions with low water requirements, making it well-suited to drought-prone areas.
- Is American Basketflower HOA-friendly?
- American Basketflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 American Basketflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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