San Diego Rabbit-tobacco
Pseudognaphalium microcephalum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
ID
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
San Diego rabbit-tobacco is a compact annual wildflower that forms low, silvery-gray mounds in the garden. It produces clusters of small white to pale yellow flowers from summer through early fall, creating a soft, textured appearance in dry landscapes.
In an HOA neighborhood
San Diego Rabbit-tobacco 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.
- Name contains 'tobacco' which may raise concerns
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to traditional gardeners
- Annual nature means gaps when plants die back
Wildlife value
This plant attracts bees and beneficial beetles during its extended blooming period from June through September. Its flowers provide nectar resources during the hot summer months when many other plants have finished blooming.
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 San Diego Rabbit-tobacco fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.