How much sun does California skullcap need?

California skullcap grows best in full sun conditions.

When does California skullcap bloom?

California skullcap blooms in April, May, and June.

Where is California skullcap native?

California skullcap (Scutellaria californica) is native to CA, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).

What pollinators does California skullcap attract?

California skullcap draws bees.

California skullcap

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Scutellaria californica

Last reviewed: October 2026

California skullcap (Scutellaria californica) is a perennial forb native to CA. It blooms in April, May, and June. The flowers draw bees.

Toxicity unknown

California skullcap (Scutellaria californica) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–14" H × 8"–12" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

Pollinators

bees

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Northwestern Forested Mountains Sierra Nevada Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Central California Valley

A low, spreading perennial with small, softly hairy leaves and tubular white to pale cream flowers held above the foliage, forming tidy patches in rocky, dry openings.

Growing California skullcap

Grow California skullcap in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 14 inches tall and spread 8 to 12 inches wide.

Wildlife value

Provides nectar for small native bees in dry, rocky habitats where bloom is limited.

Common questions

How much sun does California skullcap need?: California skullcap grows best in full sun conditions.
When does California skullcap bloom?: California skullcap blooms in April, May, and June.
Where is California skullcap native?: California skullcap (Scutellaria californica) is native to CA, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does California skullcap attract?: California skullcap draws bees.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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Common plant problems, and what to check first

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