Beebrush
Aloysia gratissima
Last reviewed: June 2026
Aloysia gratissima (Beebrush) is a drought-tolerant native shrub found in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas that blooms from March through November. This fragrant plant attracts butterflies, bees, and other nectar-feeding insects.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
72"–144" H × 72"–96" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AZ, NM, TX
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Beebrush is a native Texas shrub that produces small, fragrant white flowers from spring through fall. This drought-tolerant plant grows 6-12 feet tall and wide, making it suitable for larger landscape spaces where a substantial shrub is desired.
Growing Beebrush
Grow Beebrush in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 72 to 144 inches tall and spread 72 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Beebrush 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.
- Height exceeds typical HOA-friendly range
Wildlife value
Excellent pollinator plant that attracts butterflies, bees, and other nectar-seeking insects with its long blooming period. The extended flowering season from March through November provides consistent nectar sources throughout most of the growing year.
Common questions
- When does Aloysia gratissima bloom?
- Beebrush has an exceptionally long blooming period, producing flowers from March through November in favorable conditions.
- What pollinators visit Beebrush?
- Aloysia gratissima attracts butterflies, bees, and various nectar-feeding insects with its fragrant flowers and abundant nectar production.
- Where is Beebrush native?
- This shrub is native to the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, where it grows in desert and semi-arid regions.
- How much water does Aloysia gratissima need?
- Beebrush is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal water once established, making it excellent for xeriscaping and low-water gardens.
- Is Beebrush HOA-friendly?
- Beebrush 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.
Does Beebrush fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.