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Longhorn Plectritis

Plectritis macrocera

Last reviewed: June 2026

Longhorn Plectritis (Plectritis macrocera)
Photo: (c) Ken-ichi Ueda, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–16" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

ID

Pollinators

bees, flies

Plectritis macrocera is a delicate annual wildflower that produces small, clustered pink or white blooms from May through July. This compact native plant forms neat clumps reaching 4-16 inches tall and requires minimal water once established. It naturally self-seeds and may return in subsequent years under favorable conditions.

In an HOA neighborhood

Longhorn Plectritis 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.

  • Dies back completely by late summer leaving bare spots
  • Can appear weedy or unkempt to unfamiliar observers
  • Annual nature creates inconsistent garden appearance

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract various beneficial insects including native bees and flies during the spring and early summer blooming period. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for pollinators during a critical time of year.

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 Longhorn Plectritis fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.