Emory's Globemallow
Sphaeralcea emoryi
Last reviewed: July 2026
Sphaeralcea emoryi (Emory's Globemallow) is a drought-tolerant native forb producing orange cup-shaped flowers from May through September across Arizona, California, Nevada, and New Mexico.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, NM, NV
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Emory's globemallow is a drought-tolerant perennial that produces masses of orange-red cup-shaped flowers from late spring through fall. This low-maintenance native forms a rounded, bushy plant that goes dormant in winter, returning each spring from its deep taproot.
Growing Emory's Globemallow
Grow Emory's Globemallow in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Emory's Globemallow is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, foundation.
- Can look weedy when dormant in winter
- May spread more than desired in some locations
- Informal growth habit
Wildlife value
The abundant flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the long blooming season. This plant is particularly valuable for supporting native bee populations and serves as a host plant for some butterfly species.
Common questions
- When does Emory's Globemallow bloom?
- Sphaeralcea emoryi blooms from May through September, producing clusters of orange flowers that attract various pollinators throughout the warm months.
- What pollinators visit Emory's Globemallow?
- This native plant attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its nectar-rich orange flowers, making it valuable for pollinator gardens in arid regions.
- Where is Sphaeralcea emoryi native?
- Emory's Globemallow is native to the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona, California, Nevada, and New Mexico, where it thrives in desert and semi-arid environments.
- What growing conditions does Emory's Globemallow prefer?
- This drought-tolerant forb requires full sun exposure and low water conditions, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and low-maintenance desert gardens.
- Is Emory's Globemallow HOA-friendly?
- Emory's Globemallow is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Emory's Globemallow? 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