Oregon Checkerbloom
Sidalcea oregana
Last reviewed: August 2026
Oregon Checkerbloom (Sidalcea oregana) is a perennial forb native to CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states. It blooms in May, June, and July. The flowers draw bees and butterflies. It reads as an intentional, HOA-friendly planting in the right spot.
Oregon Checkerbloom (Sidalcea oregana) 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.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Oregon Checkerbloom as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Before you buy
Your city may pay you to plant this
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Sidalcea oregana, commonly known as checker-mallow, produces elegant spikes of pink to rose-colored flowers in late spring through summer. This native perennial has a clumping growth habit with lobed green leaves and works well in borders or wildflower gardens. It maintains a relatively tidy appearance when in bloom.
Growing Oregon Checkerbloom
Grow Oregon Checkerbloom in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Oregon Checkerbloom is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, mid zone.
- May look slightly unkempt after flowering
- Leaves can deteriorate in hot, dry conditions
- Should be cut back after bloom cycle
Wildlife value
Checker-mallow is highly attractive to native bees and butterflies, providing valuable nectar during its summer blooming period. It serves as a food source for several butterfly species.
Common questions
- How much sun does Oregon Checkerbloom need?
- Oregon Checkerbloom grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Oregon Checkerbloom bloom?
- Oregon Checkerbloom blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Oregon Checkerbloom native?
- Oregon Checkerbloom (Sidalcea oregana) is native to CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Oregon Checkerbloom toxic to dogs?
- Oregon Checkerbloom is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Oregon Checkerbloom toxic to cats?
- Oregon Checkerbloom is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Oregon Checkerbloom toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Oregon Checkerbloom as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Oregon Checkerbloom attract?
- Oregon Checkerbloom draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Oregon Checkerbloom HOA-friendly?
- Oregon Checkerbloom is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Oregon Checkerbloom? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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