Little Cat's-eye
Cryptantha minima
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–6" H × 1"–3" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CO, KS, MT and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Little cat's eye is a tiny annual wildflower that forms small, low-growing patches with delicate white or pale blue flowers. This diminutive native blooms from May through July and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care. Its small stature makes it best suited for rock gardens or naturalized areas where its subtle beauty can be appreciated up close.
In an HOA neighborhood
Little Cat's-eye 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.
- Extremely small size makes it appear sparse or incomplete
- Annual nature means gaps when plants don't return
- Can look like weeds or bare spots from a distance
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring and early summer blooming period. Despite its tiny size, it provides valuable nectar resources for small pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does Little Cat's-eye need?
- Little Cat's-eye grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Little Cat's-eye bloom?
- Little Cat's-eye blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Little Cat's-eye native?
- Little Cat's-eye (Cryptantha minima) is native to AZ, CO, KS, MT and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Little Cat's-eye attract?
- Little Cat's-eye draws bees and beetles.
- Is Little Cat's-eye HOA-friendly?
- Little Cat's-eye 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 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 Little Cat's-eye? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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