How much sun does Skeleton-weed need?

Skeleton-weed grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Skeleton-weed bloom?

Skeleton-weed blooms in June, July, August, and September.

Where is Skeleton-weed native?

Skeleton-weed (Eriogonum deflexum) is native to AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Skeleton-weed attract?

Skeleton-weed draws bees and beetles.

Is Skeleton-weed HOA-friendly?

Skeleton-weed takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Skeleton-weed

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Eriogonum deflexum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–24" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Sierra Nevada Southern California Mountains Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range Chihuahuan Deserts Sonoran Basin and Range

Skeleton-weed is a low-growing annual wildflower with delicate branching stems and small clusters of white to pink flowers. It blooms from summer through early fall, creating an airy, fine-textured appearance in dry garden areas. This drought-tolerant native thrives in full sun locations with minimal water requirements.

In an HOA neighborhood

Skeleton-weed 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.

Common name 'skeleton-weed' has negative connotations
Annual growth creates gaps when plants die back
Delicate branching structure can appear weedy or unkempt

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for various bees and beetles throughout the growing season. Its extended flowering time makes it a valuable late-season pollinator resource.

Common questions

How much sun does Skeleton-weed need?: Skeleton-weed grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Skeleton-weed bloom?: Skeleton-weed blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Skeleton-weed native?: Skeleton-weed (Eriogonum deflexum) is native to AZ, CA, NM, NV and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Skeleton-weed attract?: Skeleton-weed draws bees and beetles.
Is Skeleton-weed HOA-friendly?: Skeleton-weed 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 Skeleton-weed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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