Tree-anomone
Carpenteria californica
Last reviewed: July 2026
Carpenteria californica is a rare California native shrub that produces fragrant white flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant evergreen grows naturally in the Sierra Nevada foothills and attracts bees and butterflies.
Tree-anomone (Carpenteria californica) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
60"–120" H × 48"–96" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Carpenteria californica is an elegant native shrub with glossy, dark green foliage and spectacular large white flowers with yellow centers that bloom late spring through summer. This rare and distinctive evergreen grows 5-10 feet tall and creates a stunning focal point in water-wise gardens.
Growing Tree-anomone
Grow Tree-anomone in part sun and low water. Mature plants reach 60 to 120 inches tall and spread 48 to 96 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tree-anomone is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
- May need occasional pruning to maintain tidy shape
Wildlife value
The showy white flowers provide valuable nectar for native bees and butterflies during its extended bloom period.
Common questions
- When does Carpenteria californica bloom?
- Carpenteria californica blooms from May through July, producing clusters of fragrant white flowers with prominent yellow stamens.
- Where is Carpenteria californica native?
- Carpenteria californica is endemic to California, naturally occurring only in a small area of the Sierra Nevada foothills in Fresno County.
- What pollinators visit Carpenteria californica?
- Carpenteria californica attracts various bees and butterflies with its fragrant white flowers and accessible nectar sources.
- Is Tree-anomone toxic to dogs?
- Tree-anomone is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Tree-anomone toxic to cats?
- Tree-anomone is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Tree-anomone HOA-friendly?
- Tree-anomone is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Tree-anomone? 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