Desert Pincushion
Chaenactis stevioides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Desert pincushion is a compact annual wildflower that produces small, white to pale pink cushion-like flower heads throughout the growing season. This low-growing plant forms neat clumps and blooms reliably from late spring through summer, making it useful for adding texture to dry garden areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Desert Pincushion 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 as an annual, leaving bare spots
- May be perceived as a weed by HOA boards
- Requires reseeding each year for consistent appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract various bees and beetles during its long blooming period from May through August. As a native annual, it provides important early to mid-season nectar sources for pollinators.
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 Desert Pincushion fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.