How to Grow and Care for Navarretia

Skunkbush releases an extremely unpleasant odor when rubbed, crushed, stepped on, or physically disturbed in any way. This annual plant is native to western North America (in British Columbia, Oregon, Washington, and California), but it has been naturalized in many other parts of the world.

Navarretia leucocephala is a species of flowering plant in the phlox family known by the common name whitehead pincushionplant, or whitehead navarretia. It is native to North America, including much of the western United States and central Canada. It generally grows in wet or moist terrestrial habitat such as vernal pools.

Sticky pincushionplant is a compact, sticky-haired wildflower with a propensity for gravelly soils. This low-growing plant stands out for its clusters of tiny, tubular blue to purple blossoms that bloom in spring and early summer. The sticky coating on its stem and leaves helps sticky pincushionplant trap moisture and deter pests in its arid, sunbaked habitats.

Hollyleaf pincushionplant is known for its compact, bushy habit, flourishing in well-drained soils often found in its native range. Its stems are usually covered in fine hairs, culminating in vibrant flowers clustered together, their richness and color attracting a variety of pollinators. This plant adeptly navigates seasonal moisture, with a root system adapted to both secure nutrients and stabilize itself effectively in its changing habitat.

Navarretia leptalea is a species of flowering plant in the phlox family known by the common name Bridges' pincushionplant. It produces glandular stems with linear or narrowly oval-shaped leaves. The tiny stem is topped with an inflorescence of one or more funnel-shaped pink flowers with long, narrow throats.