Harlequin Calicoflower
Downingia insignis
Last reviewed: August 2026
Toxicity unknown
Harlequin Calicoflower (Downingia insignis) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, ID, NV, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
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 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.
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Downingia insignis is a small annual wildflower that produces delicate blue and white blooms from late spring through summer. This compact native plant forms low patches and thrives in sunny locations with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Harlequin 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 stature may appear sparse or weedy
- Annual nature means seasonal gaps in coverage
- Wild appearance doesn't fit formal landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
The colorful flowers attract native bees and butterflies during its extended blooming period from May through August.
Common questions
- How much sun does Harlequin Calicoflower need?
- Harlequin Calicoflower grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Harlequin Calicoflower bloom?
- Harlequin Calicoflower blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Harlequin Calicoflower native?
- Harlequin Calicoflower (Downingia insignis) is native to CA, ID, NV, OR, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Harlequin Calicoflower attract?
- Harlequin Calicoflower draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Harlequin Calicoflower HOA-friendly?
- Harlequin 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 vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Harlequin 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