Chinese Houses
Collinsia heterophylla
Last reviewed: June 2026
Chinese Houses (Collinsia heterophylla) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Chinese houses (Collinsia heterophylla) is a charming native annual wildflower growing 6-24 inches tall. It features distinctive tiered whorls of purple and white flowers that bloom from spring to early summer, resembling tiny pagodas. This low-water plant thrives in full sun and makes an excellent addition to borders or wildflower meadows.
In an HOA neighborhood
Chinese Houses is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone, backyard only.
- Annual nature means seasonal dieback
- Can self-seed and appear informal
- May need to be part of a more structured planting design
Wildlife value
Chinese houses is highly attractive to native bees and butterflies, providing valuable spring and early summer nectar.
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 Chinese Houses fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.