Schott's Calico
Loeseliastrum schottii
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AZ, CA, NV, TX and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Schott's calico is a small annual wildflower that forms compact, low-growing patches with delicate blooms from April through June. This drought-tolerant native produces small, colorful flowers that add seasonal interest to desert gardens. As an annual, it completes its life cycle in one growing season and may self-seed under favorable conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Schott's Calico 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.
- Dies back completely as annual, leaving bare spots
- Unpredictable germination and establishment
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to conventional standards
Wildlife value
This native wildflower attracts bees and butterflies during its spring blooming period. Its small flowers provide nectar for pollinators when few other plants are in bloom.
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 Schott's Calico fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.