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Cooper Popcornflower

Plagiobothrys collinus

Last reviewed: June 2026

Cooper Popcornflower (Plagiobothrys collinus)
Photo: Anthony Valois and the National Park Service / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

AZ, CA

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Cooper popcornflower is a small annual wildflower that produces clusters of tiny white flowers from March through May. This low-growing native forms a compact mound and thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements.

In an HOA neighborhood

Cooper Popcornflower 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.

  • Dies back completely after blooming, leaving bare spots
  • Small flowers and informal growth habit appear weedy
  • Annual nature requires replanting or reseeding yearly

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring blooming period. As an early-season bloomer, it provides important nectar sources when few other plants are flowering.

Common questions

How much sun does Cooper Popcornflower need?
Cooper Popcornflower grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Cooper Popcornflower bloom?
Cooper Popcornflower blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Cooper Popcornflower native?
Cooper Popcornflower (Plagiobothrys collinus) is native to AZ, CA, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Cooper Popcornflower attract?
Cooper Popcornflower draws bees and beetles.
Is Cooper Popcornflower HOA-friendly?
Cooper Popcornflower 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 Cooper Popcornflower? 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