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Beetberry

Blitum capitatum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Beetberry (Blitum capitatum)
Photo: Douglas Goldman / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, CT and 23 more states

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Basin and Range

Blitum capitatum, commonly known as strawberry blite or Indian paint, is a small annual herb with distinctive red, berry-like flower clusters. This compact native plant grows in a tidy mound and produces edible leaves and colorful fruiting heads throughout summer. It's an excellent choice for adding subtle color and texture to native plant gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Beetberry 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.

  • Annual growth habit creates gaps and bare spots
  • Can appear weedy or unkempt to conventional landscaping standards
  • Low height may look sparse in formal front yard settings

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract various beneficial insects including native bees and flies. The red berry-like clusters also provide food for small birds and the leaves serve as host material for certain native moth caterpillars.

Common questions

How much sun does Beetberry need?
Beetberry grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Beetberry bloom?
Beetberry blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Beetberry native?
Beetberry (Blitum capitatum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, CT and 23 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Beetberry HOA-friendly?
Beetberry 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 Beetberry? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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