How much sun does Aphyllon tuberosum need?

Aphyllon tuberosum grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Aphyllon tuberosum bloom?

Aphyllon tuberosum blooms in March, April, and May.

Where is Aphyllon tuberosum native?

Aphyllon tuberosum is native to CA, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

Aphyllon tuberosum

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Last reviewed: September 2026

Aphyllon tuberosum is a perennial forb native to CA. It blooms in March, April, and May. The flowers draw bees.

Toxicity unknown

Aphyllon tuberosum is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part shade

Water

low

Size

3"–8" H × 3"–6" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

Pollinators

bees

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Sierra Nevada Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Southern California Mountains Southern California/Northern Baja Coast

A leafless, parasitic wildflower that draws nutrients from the roots of host shrubs, producing only a short cluster of dusty purple-brown tubular flowers close to the ground in spring. Not a plant for cultivation as a standalone garden feature since it requires a living host root.

Growing Aphyllon tuberosum

Grow Aphyllon tuberosum in part shade and low water. Mature plants reach 3 to 8 inches tall and spread 3 to 6 inches wide.

Wildlife value

An uncommon nectar source for small native bees in the sparse early-spring bloom period.

Common questions

How much sun does Aphyllon tuberosum need?: Aphyllon tuberosum grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Aphyllon tuberosum bloom?: Aphyllon tuberosum blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Aphyllon tuberosum native?: Aphyllon tuberosum is native to CA, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Aphyllon tuberosum attract?: Aphyllon tuberosum draws bees.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

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