Carolina Elephantsfoot
Elephantopus carolinianus
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Carolina Elephantsfoot as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 24"–48" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 19 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Carolina Elephantsfoot is a native Texas perennial that forms low clumps of broad, textured leaves with small purple flowers clustered on branching stems. It blooms from summer through late fall, providing consistent color during the hottest months. The plant maintains its foliage through most of winter in mild climates.
In an HOA neighborhood
Carolina Elephantsfoot takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Insufficient data for HOA assessment
- Default conservative
Wildlife value
This plant attracts butterflies and bees with its long blooming period from June through November. The extended flowering season makes it particularly valuable for late-season pollinators preparing for winter.
Common questions
- How much sun does Carolina Elephantsfoot need?
- Carolina Elephantsfoot grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Carolina Elephantsfoot bloom?
- Carolina Elephantsfoot blooms in June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Carolina Elephantsfoot native?
- Carolina Elephantsfoot (Elephantopus carolinianus) is native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Carolina Elephantsfoot toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Carolina Elephantsfoot as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Carolina Elephantsfoot attract?
- Carolina Elephantsfoot draws butterflies and bees.
- Is Carolina Elephantsfoot HOA-friendly?
- Carolina Elephantsfoot 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.
Does Carolina Elephantsfoot fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.