California Damasonium
Damasonium californicum
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag California Damasonium as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, ID, NV, OR
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Damasonium californicum is a small aquatic or wetland annual that grows 4-12 inches tall with modest spread. It produces small flowers from May through July and requires consistently high moisture or standing water to thrive. This specialized plant is adapted to wet meadows, pond edges, and seasonal wetlands.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Damasonium 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.
- Requires standing water or bog conditions
- Dies back completely as annual
- Looks weedy without proper wetland context
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and flies during the late spring and summer blooming period. As an aquatic plant, it also provides habitat for wetland insects and amphibians.
Common questions
- How much sun does California Damasonium need?
- California Damasonium grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does California Damasonium bloom?
- California Damasonium blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is California Damasonium native?
- California Damasonium (Damasonium californicum) is native to CA, ID, NV, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is California Damasonium toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag California Damasonium as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does California Damasonium attract?
- California Damasonium draws bees and flies.
- Is California Damasonium HOA-friendly?
- California Damasonium 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 California Damasonium? 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