Little Western Bittercress
Cardamine oligosperma
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
2"–12" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Little western bittercress is a small annual wildflower that grows 2-12 inches tall with delicate white flowers in spring. It thrives in partial sun with moderate water and completes its life cycle in one season. This diminutive plant blooms from March through May, adding early season color to native gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Little Western Bittercress 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 size makes it appear weedy
- Annual lifecycle creates gaps when plant dies
- Name contains 'weed' which raises HOA concerns
Wildlife value
This plant provides nectar for early season bees and flies when few other flowers are available. Its small stature and brief bloom period offer modest but important spring pollinator support.
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 Little Western Bittercress fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.