Coyotillo
Karwinskia humboldtiana
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Coyotillo (Karwinskia humboldtiana) 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
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–84" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
TX
Pollinators
butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 446 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Coyotillo is a small native shrub or tree with glossy evergreen leaves and tiny flowers that bloom from spring through fall. It produces small dark berries that are highly toxic to humans and livestock, making it unsuitable for most residential landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
Coyotillo is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Trees often require HOA/ARC approval even when allowed.
- Verify setbacks from sidewalks, driveways, utilities, and structures.
- Confirm mature height/canopy limits and sightline rules for corners.
Wildlife value
The long blooming period provides nectar for butterflies and other pollinators throughout most of the growing season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Coyotillo need?
- Coyotillo grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Coyotillo bloom?
- Coyotillo blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
- Where is Coyotillo native?
- Coyotillo (Karwinskia humboldtiana) is native to TX, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Coyotillo attract?
- Coyotillo draws butterflies.
- Is Coyotillo HOA-friendly?
- Coyotillo is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Coyotillo? 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