California Strawflower
Collomia grandiflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Collomia grandiflora is a compact annual wildflower that produces clusters of tubular orange to salmon-colored blooms throughout summer. This low-growing plant thrives in partial shade with minimal water, making it suitable for naturalized areas and wildlife gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Strawflower takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Annual lifespan creates gaps in plantings
- Wild appearance may look unkempt to HOAs
- Requires replanting each year for consistent coverage
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds during the summer blooming period. As a native annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does California Strawflower need?
- California Strawflower grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does California Strawflower bloom?
- California Strawflower blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is California Strawflower native?
- California Strawflower (Collomia grandiflora) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does California Strawflower attract?
- California Strawflower draws bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
- Is California Strawflower HOA-friendly?
- California Strawflower 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 Strawflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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