Mt. Hood Pussypaws
Cistanthe umbellata
Last reviewed: August 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
2"–6" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Before you buy
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Cistanthe umbellata is a tiny alpine perennial that forms low, compact mats of small succulent-like leaves. It produces delicate clusters of small pink or white flowers on short stems during late spring and summer, creating a charming ground-hugging display.
In an HOA neighborhood
Mt. Hood Pussypaws 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 may appear sparse or incomplete
- Alpine nature gives very informal wild appearance
- Unknown dormancy appearance could look dead seasonally
Wildlife value
This plant attracts small native bees and beetles with its modest but accessible flowers. Its low stature and clustered blooms make it particularly valuable for ground-nesting beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Mt. Hood Pussypaws need?
- Mt. Hood Pussypaws grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Mt. Hood Pussypaws bloom?
- Mt. Hood Pussypaws blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Mt. Hood Pussypaws native?
- Mt. Hood Pussypaws (Cistanthe umbellata) is native to CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
- What pollinators does Mt. Hood Pussypaws attract?
- Mt. Hood Pussypaws draws bees and beetles.
- Is Mt. Hood Pussypaws HOA-friendly?
- Mt. Hood Pussypaws 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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Mt. Hood Pussypaws? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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