Stinking Camphorweed
Pluchea foetida
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 11 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles, wasps
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Stinking camphorweed is a native perennial that produces clusters of small pink to purple flowers from summer through early fall. Despite its unflattering common name, it's a valuable pollinator plant that grows in a compact, bushy form.
In an HOA neighborhood
Stinking Camphorweed 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 includes 'stinking' and 'weed'
- Can appear weedy or unkempt to traditional gardeners
- May be confused with actual weeds by neighbors
Wildlife value
This plant attracts a diverse array of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, beetles, and wasps during its long blooming period. It's particularly valuable for late-season nectar when many other flowers have finished.
Common questions
- How much sun does Stinking Camphorweed need?
- Stinking Camphorweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Stinking Camphorweed bloom?
- Stinking Camphorweed blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Stinking Camphorweed native?
- Stinking Camphorweed (Pluchea foetida) is native to AL, AR, DE, FL and 11 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Stinking Camphorweed attract?
- Stinking Camphorweed draws bees, butterflies, beetles, and wasps.
- Is Stinking Camphorweed HOA-friendly?
- Stinking Camphorweed 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 Stinking Camphorweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz