Moth Combseed
Pectocarya setosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–8" H × 2"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, ID, NM and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Moth combseed is a tiny native annual that forms low mats of small leaves and produces clusters of minute white flowers in spring. This delicate groundcover thrives in sunny, dry conditions and completes its lifecycle quickly, disappearing by summer.
In an HOA neighborhood
Moth Combseed 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 and can appear weedy
- Dies back completely after spring bloom
- May be mistaken for common weeds
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during its brief spring blooming period. Its seeds provide food for small birds and ground-dwelling wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Moth Combseed need?
- Moth Combseed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Moth Combseed bloom?
- Moth Combseed blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Moth Combseed native?
- Moth Combseed (Pectocarya setosa) is native to AZ, CA, ID, NM and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Moth Combseed attract?
- Moth Combseed draws bees and beetles.
- Is Moth Combseed HOA-friendly?
- Moth Combseed 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 Moth Combseed? 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