How much sun does Weakstem Cryptantha need?

Weakstem Cryptantha grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Weakstem Cryptantha bloom?

Weakstem Cryptantha blooms in April, May, and June.

Where is Weakstem Cryptantha native?

Weakstem Cryptantha (Cryptantha flaccida) is native to CA, ID, NV, OR and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Weakstem Cryptantha attract?

Weakstem Cryptantha draws bees and beetles.

Is Weakstem Cryptantha HOA-friendly?

Weakstem Cryptantha takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Weakstem Cryptantha

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Cryptantha flaccida

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 2"–6" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

CA, ID, NV, OR and 2 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Coast Range Sierra Nevada Central California Valley Central California Foothills and Coastal Mountains Southern California Mountains Central Basin and Range

Weakstem cryptantha is a small annual wildflower that produces tiny white flowers in spring and early summer. This compact native plant grows close to the ground and thrives in dry conditions with minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Weakstem Cryptantha 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 small size makes it appear weedy
Annual lifecycle creates gaps in plantings
Informal wildflower appearance doesn't match typical landscaping

Wildlife value

The small white flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring blooming period. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for pollinators.

Common questions

How much sun does Weakstem Cryptantha need?: Weakstem Cryptantha grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Weakstem Cryptantha bloom?: Weakstem Cryptantha blooms in April, May, and June.
Where is Weakstem Cryptantha native?: Weakstem Cryptantha (Cryptantha flaccida) is native to CA, ID, NV, OR and 2 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Weakstem Cryptantha attract?: Weakstem Cryptantha draws bees and beetles.
Is Weakstem Cryptantha HOA-friendly?: Weakstem Cryptantha 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 Weakstem Cryptantha? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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