How much sun does Variableleaf nemophila need?

Variableleaf nemophila grows best in part shade conditions.

When does Variableleaf nemophila bloom?

Variableleaf nemophila blooms in March, April, and May.

Where is Variableleaf nemophila native?

Variableleaf nemophila (Nemophila heterophylla) is native to CA, OR, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Variableleaf nemophila attract?

Variableleaf nemophila draws small bees and flies.

Variableleaf nemophila

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Nemophila heterophylla

Last reviewed: September 2026

Variableleaf nemophila (Nemophila heterophylla) is a annual forb native to CA, OR. It blooms in March, April, and May. The flowers draw small bees and flies.

Toxicity unknown

Variableleaf nemophila (Nemophila heterophylla) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

part shade

Water

medium

Size

4"–10" H × 8"–12" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

CA, OR

Pollinators

small bees, flies

Before you buy

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Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Northwestern Forested Mountains Sierra Nevada Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Central California Valley

A small, delicate woodland annual with lobed leaves and pale white-to-blue flowers that carpet shaded ground in early spring. It fades away completely by early summer.

Growing Variableleaf nemophila

Grow Variableleaf nemophila in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 10 inches tall and spread 8 to 12 inches wide.

Wildlife value

The abundant small spring flowers supply nectar to small native bees and flies before dying back for the season.

Common questions

How much sun does Variableleaf nemophila need?: Variableleaf nemophila grows best in part shade conditions.
When does Variableleaf nemophila bloom?: Variableleaf nemophila blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Variableleaf nemophila native?: Variableleaf nemophila (Nemophila heterophylla) is native to CA, OR, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Variableleaf nemophila attract?: Variableleaf nemophila draws small bees and flies.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

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