Pink-elephants
Pedicularis groenlandica
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Pink-elephants as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pink-elephants is a charming native wildflower with distinctive pink blooms that resemble tiny elephant heads with raised trunks. This compact perennial grows in neat clumps and produces its whimsical flowers throughout the summer months. It thrives in partially sunny locations with consistent moisture.
In an HOA neighborhood
Pink-elephants takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Unusual flower shape may be seen as too wild or unconventional
- Requires specific moisture conditions that may be difficult to maintain
- Not widely recognized as a typical landscaping plant
Wildlife value
The tubular flowers attract bees and hummingbirds during the summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar resources for pollinators in mountain and prairie ecosystems.
Common questions
- How much sun does Pink-elephants need?
- Pink-elephants grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Pink-elephants bloom?
- Pink-elephants blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Pink-elephants native?
- Pink-elephants (Pedicularis groenlandica) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 8 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Pink-elephants toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Pink-elephants as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Pink-elephants attract?
- Pink-elephants draws bees and hummingbirds.
- Is Pink-elephants HOA-friendly?
- Pink-elephants 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 Pink-elephants? 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