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Sacramento Waxydogbane

Cycladenia humilis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Sacramento Waxydogbane (Cycladenia humilis)
Photo: John Spence / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CA, OR, UT

Pollinators

bees, butterflies

Sacramento waxydogbane is a compact desert perennial that forms small clumps close to the ground. It produces delicate flowers from May through July and requires minimal water once established. This low-growing plant works well as a groundcover or accent in water-wise gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Sacramento Waxydogbane 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.

  • Very small size may appear sparse or insignificant
  • Unknown dormancy appearance could look untidy
  • Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping

Wildlife value

The flowers attract bees and butterflies during the summer blooming period. Its nectar provides an important food source for pollinators in desert environments.

Common questions

How much sun does Sacramento Waxydogbane need?
Sacramento Waxydogbane grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Sacramento Waxydogbane bloom?
Sacramento Waxydogbane blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Sacramento Waxydogbane native?
Sacramento Waxydogbane (Cycladenia humilis) is native to AZ, CA, OR, UT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Sacramento Waxydogbane attract?
Sacramento Waxydogbane draws bees and butterflies.
Is Sacramento Waxydogbane HOA-friendly?
Sacramento Waxydogbane 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 Sacramento Waxydogbane? 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