Cushion Cryptantha
Cryptantha circumscissa
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Cryptantha circumscissa is a small annual wildflower with tiny white flowers that bloom from May through July. This compact plant grows only 4-12 inches tall and spreads 2-8 inches wide, thriving in full sun with minimal water requirements.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cushion Cryptantha 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.
- Very small size makes it appear weedy in formal landscapes
- Annual lifecycle means gaps and inconsistent coverage
- Tiny flowers and modest appearance lack visual impact for front yards
Wildlife value
This native forb provides nectar and pollen for bees and beetles during its summer blooming period. As an annual, it offers seasonal habitat value but may not provide consistent year-round wildlife support.
Common questions
- How much sun does Cushion Cryptantha need?
- Cushion Cryptantha grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Cushion Cryptantha bloom?
- Cushion Cryptantha blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Cushion Cryptantha native?
- Cushion Cryptantha (Cryptantha circumscissa) is native to CA, CO, ID, MT and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Cushion Cryptantha attract?
- Cushion Cryptantha draws bees and beetles.
- Is Cushion Cryptantha HOA-friendly?
- Cushion Cryptantha 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 Cushion Cryptantha? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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