Search Plants
Try for Free
English
About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Pincushions (Chaenactis)
Pincushions are flowering herbs related to daisies and are commonly grow as wildflowers across their native landscape of western North America. Although they are variable in appearance, most pincushions have an aster-like look, with multiple white, pink, or yellow flowerheads produced by each plant. Some species thrive in dry landscapes and are prolific spring bloomers, even in places such as the Mojave Desert. 
Lifespan
Annual
Key Facts About Pincushions
Feedback
Attributes of Pincushions
Leaf type
Deciduous
Scientific Classification of Pincushions
Distribution of Pincushions
Feedback
Distribution Map of Pincushions
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Pincushions
Feedback
Pincushions thrive in environments mimicking their native arid habitats. They require full sun exposure and well-draining soil with low fertility. Consistent water during their growing season is essential, but they are drought-tolerant once established. Challenges include overwatering, leading to root rot, and infrequent pest issues. Seasonal care involves reducing watering in winter and preparing for more vigorous growth and potential division in spring. Protect from extreme cold and maintain minimal soil moisture in winter.
Exploring the Pincushions Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Pincushion flower
North America's pincushion flower (Chaenactis fremontii) grows in sandy and gravelly soil across the Mojave Desert, the northern Sonoran Desert, and similar regions. A member of the sunflower family, it is one of the most conspicuous spring wildflowers in that environment. It is a valuable source of food for desert tortoises.
Douglas' dustymaiden
Native to western North America, douglas' dustymaiden (Chaenactis douglasii) is a flowering plant species in the same family as daisies and sunflowers. Douglas' dustymaiden grows happily in areas disturbed by humans such as mines and roadsides. It is a beneficial plant for many different species of pollinators. Its vigorous growth habit can strangle out other, more invasive plants.
Esteve's pincushion
Esteve's pincushion (Chaenactis stevioides) is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that blooms from winter to summer with clusters of white flowers. The flower heads are round and covered with tiny flowers resembling a pincushion. Commonly found growing in desert areas in the southwestern United States.
Pebble pincushion
Chaenactis carphoclinia, or pebble pincushion, is an annual herb growing an erect, branching stem up to about 60 cm in maximum height. The longest leaves are about 10 cm long and are usually divided into a few lobes. The inflorescence bears a few flower heads, each up to a centimeter wide.
Yellow pincushion
In general, Chaenactis glabriuscula is an annual herb producing one or more mainly erect stems approaching 50 cm in maximum height. The branching stems are hairy and often cobwebby with fibers. The inflorescence produces one to many flower heads on a very long, erect peduncle.
Nevada dustymaiden
Nevada dustymaiden is a hardy perennial herb notable for its small size and sparse, woolly foliage. The plant flourishes in Nevada's arid regions, showcasing white to pale pink flowers distinguishable by their tubular florets and feathery appearance. Survival in its high-desert habitat is enhanced by the deep taproot system and drought-resistant adaptation.
Fleshcolor pincushion
Fleshcolor pincushion is a resilient wildflower native to arid regions, with a preference for sandy soils. This plant exhibits a low-growing, bushy stature, topped with vibrant yellow daisy-like blooms that bask in full sun. Its narrow, gray-green leaves are finely textured, providing a striking contrast to the bright flowers, which attract various pollinators. Adapted to dry conditions, fleshcolor pincushion thrives in environments where other plants might not survive.
John day's pincushion
John day's pincushion is an eye-catching wildflower with delicate, feathery foliage and clusters of small, white to pale pink blooms. Its petals spread uniquely in a cup shape, capturing the attention of pollinators in its arid, mountainous habitats. This perennial thrives in harsh, rocky soils, with deep roots that draw sustenance and moisture from the challenging terrain.
All Species of Pincushions
Pincushion flower
Pincushion flower
North America's pincushion flower (Chaenactis fremontii) grows in sandy and gravelly soil across the Mojave Desert, the northern Sonoran Desert, and similar regions. A member of the sunflower family, it is one of the most conspicuous spring wildflowers in that environment. It is a valuable source of food for desert tortoises.
Douglas' dustymaiden
Douglas' dustymaiden
Native to western North America, douglas' dustymaiden (Chaenactis douglasii) is a flowering plant species in the same family as daisies and sunflowers. Douglas' dustymaiden grows happily in areas disturbed by humans such as mines and roadsides. It is a beneficial plant for many different species of pollinators. Its vigorous growth habit can strangle out other, more invasive plants.
Esteve's pincushion
Esteve's pincushion
Esteve's pincushion (Chaenactis stevioides) is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that blooms from winter to summer with clusters of white flowers. The flower heads are round and covered with tiny flowers resembling a pincushion. Commonly found growing in desert areas in the southwestern United States.
Pebble pincushion
Pebble pincushion
Chaenactis carphoclinia, or pebble pincushion, is an annual herb growing an erect, branching stem up to about 60 cm in maximum height. The longest leaves are about 10 cm long and are usually divided into a few lobes. The inflorescence bears a few flower heads, each up to a centimeter wide.
Yellow pincushion
Yellow pincushion
In general, Chaenactis glabriuscula is an annual herb producing one or more mainly erect stems approaching 50 cm in maximum height. The branching stems are hairy and often cobwebby with fibers. The inflorescence produces one to many flower heads on a very long, erect peduncle.
Nevada dustymaiden
Nevada dustymaiden
Nevada dustymaiden is a hardy perennial herb notable for its small size and sparse, woolly foliage. The plant flourishes in Nevada's arid regions, showcasing white to pale pink flowers distinguishable by their tubular florets and feathery appearance. Survival in its high-desert habitat is enhanced by the deep taproot system and drought-resistant adaptation.
Fleshcolor pincushion
Fleshcolor pincushion
Fleshcolor pincushion is a resilient wildflower native to arid regions, with a preference for sandy soils. This plant exhibits a low-growing, bushy stature, topped with vibrant yellow daisy-like blooms that bask in full sun. Its narrow, gray-green leaves are finely textured, providing a striking contrast to the bright flowers, which attract various pollinators. Adapted to dry conditions, fleshcolor pincushion thrives in environments where other plants might not survive.
John day's pincushion
John day's pincushion
John day's pincushion is an eye-catching wildflower with delicate, feathery foliage and clusters of small, white to pale pink blooms. Its petals spread uniquely in a cup shape, capturing the attention of pollinators in its arid, mountainous habitats. This perennial thrives in harsh, rocky soils, with deep roots that draw sustenance and moisture from the challenging terrain.
Peirson's pincushion
Peirson's pincushion
Peirson's pincushion is a perennial herb characterized by its clustered white to pale pink flowers atop slender, branching stems. This variety thrives in the arid desert regions, showcasing narrow leaves that minimize water loss. Its flowering season is a desperate splash amidst sandy soils, resiliently blooming within a harsh, sun-drenched landscape.
White pincushion
White pincushion
White pincushion is a herbaceous perennial with fern-like leaves, reflecting its name, reminiscent of Artemisia plants. Its stems are typically erect, branching, and bear white to cream-colored flower heads composed of numerous small disc florets. White pincushion thrives in arid regions, with an adaptability that allows for survival amidst dry climates and poor soils. The plant's vibrant blooms offer a stark contrast to its typically sparse, desert-like habitats.
Thompson's pincushion
Thompson's pincushion
Thompson's pincushion is a slender-stemmed wildflower native primarily to desert environments where resilience to arid conditions is key. It boasts delicate, typically white or yellow composite flowers that unfurl in spring, accentuated by fine, feathery foliage. The plant thrives in sandy soils and exhibits drought-tolerant adaptations, making it a specialist in its harsh habitat.
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
Key Facts
Distribution
How To Care
All Species
More Genus
Pincushions
Chaenactis
Pincushions are flowering herbs related to daisies and are commonly grow as wildflowers across their native landscape of western North America. Although they are variable in appearance, most pincushions have an aster-like look, with multiple white, pink, or yellow flowerheads produced by each plant. Some species thrive in dry landscapes and are prolific spring bloomers, even in places such as the Mojave Desert.
Lifespan
Annual
Instantly identify plants with a snap
Snap a photo for instant plant ID, gaining quick insights on disease prevention, treatment, toxicity, care, uses, and symbolism, etc.
Download the App for Free
Key Facts About Pincushions
Feedback
Attributes of Pincushions
Leaf type
Deciduous
Scientific Classification of Pincushions
Distribution of Pincushions
Feedback
Distribution Map of Pincushions
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
How to Grow and Care for Pincushions
Feedback
Pincushions thrive in environments mimicking their native arid habitats. They require full sun exposure and well-draining soil with low fertility. Consistent water during their growing season is essential, but they are drought-tolerant once established. Challenges include overwatering, leading to root rot, and infrequent pest issues. Seasonal care involves reducing watering in winter and preparing for more vigorous growth and potential division in spring. Protect from extreme cold and maintain minimal soil moisture in winter.
Exploring the Pincushions Plants
Feedback
8 most common species：
Pincushion flower
North America's pincushion flower (Chaenactis fremontii) grows in sandy and gravelly soil across the Mojave Desert, the northern Sonoran Desert, and similar regions. A member of the sunflower family, it is one of the most conspicuous spring wildflowers in that environment. It is a valuable source of food for desert tortoises.
Douglas' dustymaiden
Native to western North America, douglas' dustymaiden (Chaenactis douglasii) is a flowering plant species in the same family as daisies and sunflowers. Douglas' dustymaiden grows happily in areas disturbed by humans such as mines and roadsides. It is a beneficial plant for many different species of pollinators. Its vigorous growth habit can strangle out other, more invasive plants.
Esteve's pincushion
Esteve's pincushion (Chaenactis stevioides) is an annual or short-lived perennial plant that blooms from winter to summer with clusters of white flowers. The flower heads are round and covered with tiny flowers resembling a pincushion. Commonly found growing in desert areas in the southwestern United States.
Pebble pincushion
Chaenactis carphoclinia, or pebble pincushion, is an annual herb growing an erect, branching stem up to about 60 cm in maximum height. The longest leaves are about 10 cm long and are usually divided into a few lobes. The inflorescence bears a few flower heads, each up to a centimeter wide.
Show More Species
All Species of Pincushions
More Popular Genus
Feedback
Dracaena
Dracaena are popular house plants that are easy to grow. They can tolerate low-light conditions and require little watering. Their leaves range from variegated to dark green. Their characteristic traits include woody stems that grow slowly but offer a striking appearance for small spaces such as apartments or offices.
Fig trees
Fig trees have been cultivated in many regions for their fruits, particularly the common fig, F. carica. Most of the species have edible fruits, although the common fig is the only one of commercial value. Fig trees are also important food sources for wildlife in the tropics, including monkeys, bats, and insects.
Brambles
Brambles are members of the rose family, and there are hundreds of different types to be found throughout the European countryside. They have been culturally significant for centuries; Christian folklore stories hold that when the devil was thrown from heaven, he landed on a bramble bush. Their vigorous growth habit can tangle into native plants and take over.
Maples
The popular tree family known as maples change the color of their leaves in the fall. Many cultural traditions encourage people to watch the colors change, such as momijigari in Japan. Maples popular options for bonsai art. Alternately, their sap is used to create maple syrup.
Prunus
Prunus is a genus of flowering fruit trees that includes almonds, cherries, plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots. These are often known as "stone fruits" because their pits are large seeds or "stones." When prunus trees are damaged, they exhibit "gummosis," a condition in which the tree's gum (similar to sap) is secreted to the bark to help heal external wounds.
Nightshades
Nightshades is a large and diverse genus of plants, with more than 1500 different types worldwide. This genus incorporates both important staple food crops like tomato, potato, and eggplant, but also dangerous poisonous plants from the nightshade family. The name was coined by Pliny the Elder almost two thousand years ago.
Roses
Most species of roses are shrubs or climbing plants that have showy flowers and sharp thorns. They are commonly cultivated for cut flowers or as ornamental plants in gardens due to their attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, and cultural significance in many countries. The rose hips (fruits) can also be used in jams and teas.
Oaks
Oaks are among the world's longest-lived trees, sometimes growing for over 1,000 years! The oldest known oak tree is in the southern United States and is over 1,500 years old. Oaks produce an exceedingly popular type of wood which is used to make different products, from furniture and flooring to wine barrels and even cosmetic creams.
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
Nearly 5 years of research
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
