Fendler's Cowbane
Oxypolis fendleri
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CO, NM, UT and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, wasps, flies
Fendler's cowbane is a native wildflower that produces clusters of small white flowers from summer through early fall. This perennial grows in an upright, somewhat loose form and dies back to the ground each winter.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fendler's Cowbane 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.
- Has wild, informal appearance that may look weedy
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
- Name contains 'cowbane' which may concern neighbors
Wildlife value
The flowers attract a diverse range of beneficial insects including native bees, beetles, wasps, and flies during the summer blooming period.
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 Fendler's Cowbane fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.