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Fameflower

Phemeranthus calycinus

Last reviewed: August 2026

Fameflower (Phemeranthus calycinus) is a perennial succulent native to AR, CO, IL, KS and 6 more states. It blooms in June, July, and August. The flowers draw bees. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.

Fameflower (Phemeranthus calycinus)
Photo: (c) Corey Raimond, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–10" H × 4"–8" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AR, CO, IL, KS and 6 more states

Pollinators

bees

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 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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A diminutive succulent-leaved perennial forming a low tuft of narrow, fleshy foliage and wiry stems topped with small, bright magenta-pink flowers that open only in the afternoon sun. Thrives in shallow, lean, fast-draining soil and is well suited to a rock garden or gravel bed.

Growing Fameflower

Grow Fameflower in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 4 to 10 inches tall and spread 4 to 8 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Fameflower is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge.

Wildlife value

Afternoon-blooming flowers provide a nectar source for bees.

Common questions

How much sun does Fameflower need?
Fameflower grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Fameflower bloom?
Fameflower blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Fameflower native?
Fameflower (Phemeranthus calycinus) is native to AR, CO, IL, KS and 6 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Fameflower attract?
Fameflower draws bees.
Is Fameflower HOA-friendly?
Fameflower is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Fameflower? 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