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Spreadingpod Rockcress

Boechera divaricarpa

Last reviewed: June 2026

Spreadingpod Rockcress (Boechera divaricarpa)
Photo: Patrick Alexander from Las Cruces, NM / Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

Light

part sun

Water

low

Size

8"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

CA, ID, MT, NH and 5 more states

Pollinators

bees, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Boechera divaricarpa is a compact native perennial that forms neat clumps with slender stems and small white flowers. It blooms reliably from May through July and tolerates dry conditions well once established. This low-maintenance plant works well in rock gardens or as a subtle groundcover.

In an HOA neighborhood

Spreadingpod Rockcress 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 uncommon plant that HOAs would likely view as weedy
  • Small flowers and informal growth habit don't provide strong visual impact
  • Unknown leaf retention creates uncertainty about winter appearance

Wildlife value

The flowers attract native bees and beneficial flies during its extended spring and summer blooming period. Its compact size makes it a good choice for pollinator gardens where space is limited.

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