Fogfruit
Phyla nodiflora
Last reviewed: June 2026
Phyla nodiflora (Fogfruit) is a low-growing native forb found across the southern and western United States. This drought-tolerant groundcover blooms from June through October, attracting bees and butterflies.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Fogfruit as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
3"–12" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 16 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Fogfruit is a low-growing evergreen groundcover that forms dense mats with small rounded leaves and tiny white flower clusters. This hardy perennial thrives in full sun with minimal water once established. It blooms from summer through fall, providing long-lasting color and texture.
Growing Fogfruit
Grow Fogfruit in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 3 to 12 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Fogfruit 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.
- Spreads aggressively and can look unkempt
- May be perceived as weedy due to informal growth habit
- Difficult to contain within defined borders
Wildlife value
The small white flowers attract native bees and butterflies throughout the extended blooming season. Its dense mat-forming habit also provides shelter for beneficial insects.
Common questions
- Where is Phyla nodiflora native?
- Phyla nodiflora is native to 20 U.S. states, primarily in the South and West, including Texas, California, Florida, Arizona, and Nevada.
- When does Fogfruit bloom?
- Fogfruit produces small white flowers from June through October, providing nectar for pollinators throughout the growing season.
- What pollinators visit Phyla nodiflora?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Fogfruit, attracted to its small but abundant white flowers.
- How much water does Fogfruit need?
- Phyla nodiflora is highly adaptable to different moisture levels, tolerating both drought conditions and regular watering once established.
- Is Fogfruit toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Fogfruit as toxic to livestock.
- Is Fogfruit HOA-friendly?
- Fogfruit 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 Fogfruit? 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