Bastard Toadflax
Comandra umbellata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Comandra umbellata (Bastard Toadflax) is a native North American forb that blooms May through July with small white flowers. This drought-tolerant wildflower grows across most US states and attracts bees and butterflies.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
6"–18" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 42 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bastard toadflax is a low-growing native perennial that forms small clusters of tiny white flowers from late spring through summer. This compact plant has narrow, blue-green leaves and maintains a neat, ground-hugging appearance throughout the growing season. It thrives in well-drained soils and tolerates drought once established.
Growing Bastard Toadflax
Grow Bastard Toadflax in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 18 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
Bastard Toadflax 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.
- Very small inconspicuous flowers may appear weedy
- Low growth habit lacks visual impact for formal landscaping
- Name creates negative associations despite being harmless
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract various native bees and occasional butterflies during its extended bloom period. Its low stature makes it less significant for larger wildlife but provides nectar for smaller pollinators.
Common questions
- When does Comandra umbellata bloom?
- Bastard Toadflax typically blooms from May through July, producing small clusters of white to greenish-white flowers.
- What pollinators visit Bastard Toadflax?
- Comandra umbellata attracts various bees and butterflies to its small but numerous flowers during the growing season.
- Where is Comandra umbellata native?
- Bastard Toadflax is native to most US states, found from coast to coast including the western mountains, Great Plains, Great Lakes region, and eastern states.
- What growing conditions does Bastard Toadflax prefer?
- This hardy native forb tolerates drought conditions and grows well in full sun to partial shade, making it suitable for low-water gardens and natural landscapes.
- Is Bastard Toadflax HOA-friendly?
- Bastard Toadflax 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 Bastard Toadflax? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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