Meadowfoam
Limnanthes alba
Last reviewed: July 2026
Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 6"–15" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Meadowfoam is a charming spring annual wildflower featuring delicate white cup-shaped blooms with yellow centers. It grows in a low mounding form and creates a stunning carpet-like effect when planted in masses, blooming profusely from March through June.
In an HOA neighborhood
Meadowfoam is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, front yard.
- Annual growth habit means seasonal die-back
- Can look untidy after flowering
- Best used in defined planting areas rather than large expanses
Wildlife value
Meadowfoam is highly attractive to native bees and hover flies, providing valuable early-season nectar and pollen when many other plants aren't yet flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does Meadowfoam need?
- Meadowfoam grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Meadowfoam bloom?
- Meadowfoam blooms in March, April, May, and June.
- Where is Meadowfoam native?
- Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba) is native to CA, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Meadowfoam toxic to dogs?
- Meadowfoam is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Meadowfoam toxic to cats?
- Meadowfoam is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- What pollinators does Meadowfoam attract?
- Meadowfoam draws bees and flies.
- Is Meadowfoam HOA-friendly?
- Meadowfoam is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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 Meadowfoam? 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