Apache-beads
Anemopsis californica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Anemopsis californica (Apache-beads) is a native wetland perb blooming May through September across the southwestern United States. This distinctive plant produces white cone-shaped flowers and thrives in moist to wet soils.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Apache-beads as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–24" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, KS and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Apache-beads is a low-growing perennial that produces distinctive white cone-shaped flowers surrounded by white bracts from late spring through fall. This spreading groundcover has aromatic leaves and thrives in moist conditions, making it suitable for irrigated garden areas.
Growing Apache-beads
Grow Apache-beads in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Apache-beads takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Aggressive spreading habit can appear uncontrolled
- Unusual flower form may look weedy to some
- Unknown leaf retention creates seasonal appearance uncertainty
Wildlife value
The long blooming period from May through September provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beetles. Its dense growth habit can also provide shelter for small wildlife.
Common questions
- When does Anemopsis californica bloom?
- Apache-beads typically blooms from May through September, producing distinctive white cone-shaped flower heads surrounded by white bracts.
- Where is Anemopsis californica native?
- This species is native to Arizona, California, Colorado, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, and Utah, primarily in wetland and riparian areas.
- What pollinators visit Apache-beads?
- Anemopsis californica attracts various pollinators including bees, butterflies, and beetles that are drawn to its fragrant white flowers.
- What growing conditions does Anemopsis californica prefer?
- Apache-beads grows best in full sun to partial sun with consistent moisture, naturally occurring in wet meadows, seeps, and along stream banks.
- Is Apache-beads toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Apache-beads as toxic to livestock.
- Is Apache-beads HOA-friendly?
- Apache-beads 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 Apache-beads? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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