Wallflower Phoenicaulis
Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, ID, NV, OR and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Phoenicaulis cheiranthoides is a compact native perennial that forms low cushions of foliage topped with clusters of small spring flowers. This drought-tolerant plant stays small and tidy, making it suitable for rock gardens and dry areas where a low-maintenance groundcover is desired.
In an HOA neighborhood
Wallflower Phoenicaulis 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.
- Very uncommon plant that most HOAs would not recognize
- May appear weedy or unkempt to conventional landscaping standards
- Small size makes it easy to overlook or mistake for a weed
Wildlife value
The spring blooms attract native bees and butterflies during an important early season period when few other flowers are available.
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 Wallflower Phoenicaulis fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.