California Hedgenettle
Stachys bullata
Last reviewed: July 2026
Stachys bullata (California Hedgenettle) is a native California perennial forb that blooms purple flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant wildflower attracts bees and butterflies in partial sun to shade conditions.
California Hedgenettle (Stachys bullata) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Stachys bullata is a medium-sized native perennial with soft, fuzzy leaves and lavender to pink flower spikes. It forms a rounded mound with year-round foliage and blooms throughout late spring and summer. This low-water plant adds texture and color to partially shaded garden spots.
Growing California Hedgenettle
Grow California Hedgenettle in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Hedgenettle is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Can spread somewhat informally if not maintained
- May look slightly unkempt without occasional trimming
- Not as recognizable as common landscape plants
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers are highly attractive to bees and butterflies, making it an excellent pollinator plant. Native bees are particularly drawn to its nectar-rich blooms.
Common questions
- When does California Hedgenettle bloom?
- Stachys bullata typically blooms from May through July, producing spikes of purple flowers that attract native pollinators.
- What pollinators visit California Hedgenettle?
- California Hedgenettle attracts bees and butterflies with its nectar-rich purple flowers during the summer blooming period.
- Where is Stachys bullata native?
- California Hedgenettle is endemic to California, where it grows naturally in chaparral and woodland habitats throughout much of the state.
- What growing conditions does California Hedgenettle prefer?
- This native perforb thrives in low water conditions and tolerates full sun to partial shade, making it excellent for drought-tolerant gardens.
- Is California Hedgenettle toxic to dogs?
- California Hedgenettle is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Hedgenettle toxic to cats?
- California Hedgenettle is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Hedgenettle HOA-friendly?
- California Hedgenettle 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.
Ready to grow California Hedgenettle? 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