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Talayote

Cynanchum racemosum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Talayote (Cynanchum racemosum)
Photo: Craig Hensley / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

96"–180" H × 12"–24" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov

Native to

TX

Pollinators

butterflies, bees, nectar insects

Talayote is a native Texas vine that can climb 8-15 feet tall with a narrow spread. It produces small white flowers from spring through fall and attracts numerous pollinators throughout its long blooming season. The vine goes dormant in winter, losing its leaves completely.

In an HOA neighborhood

Talayote 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.

  • Requires support structure
  • Can appear messy

Wildlife value

This plant is exceptional for pollinators, supporting butterflies, bees, and other nectar-feeding insects with its extended 9-month bloom period. The long flowering season provides consistent nectar sources from early spring through late fall.

Common questions

How much sun does Talayote need?
Talayote grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Talayote bloom?
Talayote blooms in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November.
Where is Talayote native?
Talayote (Cynanchum racemosum) is native to TX, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Talayote attract?
Talayote draws butterflies, bees, and nectar insects.
Is Talayote HOA-friendly?
Talayote 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.

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