Fremont Pincushion
Chaenactis fremontii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, NV, UT
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fremont pincushion is a charming annual wildflower that produces clusters of cream-colored, cushion-like blooms from April through June. This compact desert native grows 4-16 inches tall and thrives in full sun with minimal water. As an annual, it completes its life cycle in one growing season and may self-seed under favorable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fremont 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.
- Annual nature means inconsistent presence year to year
- Can appear weedy or unkempt between blooming periods
- May not germinate reliably creating patchy appearance
Wildlife value
The pincushion-shaped flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring blooming period. This plant provides important early-season nectar when few other flowers are available.
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 Fremont Pincushion fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.