Doublehorn Calicoflower
Downingia bicornuta
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Doublehorn Calicoflower as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, ID, NV, OR
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Doublehorn calicoflower is a delicate annual wildflower native to wet meadows and vernal pools. This compact plant produces small, intricate blue and white flowers from May through July. It thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Doublehorn Calicoflower 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
- Annual lifecycle means gaps in coverage
- Wildflower appearance conflicts with manicured landscape expectations
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and other pollinators during the late spring and summer blooming period.
Common questions
- How much sun does Doublehorn Calicoflower need?
- Doublehorn Calicoflower grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Doublehorn Calicoflower bloom?
- Doublehorn Calicoflower blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Doublehorn Calicoflower native?
- Doublehorn Calicoflower (Downingia bicornuta) is native to CA, ID, NV, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Doublehorn Calicoflower toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Doublehorn Calicoflower as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Doublehorn Calicoflower attract?
- Doublehorn Calicoflower draws bees.
- Is Doublehorn Calicoflower HOA-friendly?
- Doublehorn Calicoflower 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 Doublehorn Calicoflower? 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