Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion
Malacothrix torreyi
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–18" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Malacothrix torreyi is a compact native perennial forb that produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers from June through August. This low-growing plant forms neat clumps 6-18 inches tall and tolerates drought conditions well in full sun locations.
In an HOA neighborhood
Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion 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.
- Unfamiliar appearance may seem weedy to traditional gardeners
- Unknown dormancy characteristics create uncertainty about year-round appearance
- Name and plant not widely recognized in typical landscaping
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow blooms attract native bees and beetles during the summer months, providing important nectar resources for pollinators.
Common questions
- How much sun does Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion need?
- Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion bloom?
- Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion native?
- Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion (Malacothrix torreyi) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion attract?
- Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion draws bees and beetles.
- Is Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion HOA-friendly?
- Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion 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 Torrey'S Desert-Dandelion? 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