Arrow-weed
Pluchea sericea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Pluchea sericea (Arrow-weed) is a drought-tolerant native shrub found across the southwestern United States from Arizona to Texas. This hardy plant blooms from June through September, attracting bees, butterflies, and moths.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
120"–240" H × 48"–120" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, moths
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Arrow-weed is a tall, fast-growing shrub that forms dense colonies along washes and wet areas. This deciduous plant can reach 10-20 feet tall and produces clusters of small pink to purple flowers from summer through fall. It's naturally found in riparian areas and thrives in low water conditions once established.
Growing Arrow-weed
Grow Arrow-weed in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 120 to 240 inches tall and spread 48 to 120 inches wide. Expect high maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Arrow-weed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Grows extremely large and can overwhelm typical residential spaces
- Spreads aggressively through underground runners
- Looks bare and scraggly during winter dormancy
Wildlife value
The long blooming period attracts numerous pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and moths from June through September. Birds often use the dense growth for nesting cover and the seeds provide food for wildlife.
Common questions
- Where does Pluchea sericea naturally grow?
- Arrow-weed is native to the southwestern United States, including Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Texas, typically growing in desert washes and along waterways.
- When does Arrow-weed bloom?
- Pluchea sericea produces flowers from June through September, providing nectar for pollinators during the hot summer months when few other plants are blooming.
- What pollinators visit Arrow-weed?
- The small white flowers of Pluchea sericea attract various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and moths, making it valuable for supporting desert pollinator populations.
- How much water does Arrow-weed need?
- This drought-tolerant shrub requires minimal water once established, though it can tolerate occasional supplemental watering and naturally grows near seasonal water sources.
- Is Arrow-weed HOA-friendly?
- Arrow-weed 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 Arrow-weed? 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