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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.

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.

Does Sacramento Waxydogbane fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.