Texas Bull-nettle
Cnidoscolus texanus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, KS, LA, OK and 1 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Bull nettle is a drought-tolerant native perennial with deeply lobed leaves and clusters of small white flowers from late spring through summer. This plant has stinging hairs on stems and leaves that can cause skin irritation upon contact. It thrives in poor soils and requires minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Texas Bull-nettle 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.
- Stinging hairs pose safety concerns near walkways
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- May be considered a nuisance plant by neighbors
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and butterflies during its long blooming period. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Texas Bull-nettle need?
- Texas Bull-nettle grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Texas Bull-nettle bloom?
- Texas Bull-nettle blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Texas Bull-nettle native?
- Texas Bull-nettle (Cnidoscolus texanus) is native to AR, KS, LA, OK and 1 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Texas Bull-nettle attract?
- Texas Bull-nettle draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Texas Bull-nettle HOA-friendly?
- Texas Bull-nettle 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 Texas Bull-nettle? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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