Short Woollyheads
Psilocarphus brevissimus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
1"–4" H × 1"–4" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Short woollyheads is a tiny annual wildflower that forms low mats of woolly, silvery foliage. This diminutive native produces small, inconspicuous flower heads from summer through early fall and thrives in dry, sunny locations with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Short Woollyheads 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.
- Extremely small size makes it nearly invisible in landscaping
- Annual nature means gaps when plants don't return
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to unfamiliar observers
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, beetles, and flies during its extended blooming period from June through September.
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 Short Woollyheads fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.