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Arizona Popcorn-flower

Plagiobothrys arizonicus

Last reviewed: July 2026

Arizona Popcorn-flower (Plagiobothrys arizonicus)
Photo: Stan Shebs / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 2"–8" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

A compact native annual with small white flowers that bloom in spring. This low-growing wildflower produces clusters of tiny blooms from March through May, adding delicate texture to wildflower gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Arizona Popcorn-flower 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.

  • Dies back completely after spring bloom
  • Can appear weedy or sparse
  • Unpredictable germination patterns typical of desert annuals

Wildlife value

Supports native bees and beetles during its spring flowering period. The small flowers provide nectar and pollen for smaller pollinators.

Common questions

How much sun does Arizona Popcorn-flower need?
Arizona Popcorn-flower grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Arizona Popcorn-flower bloom?
Arizona Popcorn-flower blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Arizona Popcorn-flower native?
Arizona Popcorn-flower (Plagiobothrys arizonicus) is native to AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Arizona Popcorn-flower attract?
Arizona Popcorn-flower draws bees and beetles.
Is Arizona Popcorn-flower HOA-friendly?
Arizona Popcorn-flower 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 Arizona Popcorn-flower? 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