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Big Bend Silverleaf

Leucophyllum minus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Big Bend Silverleaf (Leucophyllum minus)
Photo: Patrick Alexander from Las Cruces, NM / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–36" H × 12"–36" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Native to

NM, TX

Pollinators

butterflies, bees

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Big Bend Silverleaf is a compact, drought-tolerant shrub with silvery-gray foliage that provides year-round color. It produces tubular flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white from spring through fall, creating an extended blooming period. This low-maintenance native requires minimal water once established and thrives in hot, sunny locations.

In an HOA neighborhood

Big Bend Silverleaf is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone.

  • Requires annual shaping to stay compact

Wildlife value

The long blooming season attracts butterflies and bees throughout most of the growing season. The tubular flowers are particularly valuable for providing nectar when many other plants have finished blooming.

Common questions

How much sun does Big Bend Silverleaf need?
Big Bend Silverleaf grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Big Bend Silverleaf bloom?
Big Bend Silverleaf blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
Where is Big Bend Silverleaf native?
Big Bend Silverleaf (Leucophyllum minus) is native to NM, TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Big Bend Silverleaf attract?
Big Bend Silverleaf draws butterflies and bees.
Is Big Bend Silverleaf HOA-friendly?
Big Bend Silverleaf is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

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 Big Bend Silverleaf fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.