Quick answer: Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa) is native to 4 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 24 Oct 2026.
Photo: Kevin Gepford, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Sandy |
| Bloom | Bloom Feb-Jul |
| Height | 6-12 in |
| Wildlife value | Moths, butterflies |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 24 Oct 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Desert sand verbena
Where is Desert sand verbena native?
Desert sand verbena (Abronia villosa) is native to Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Desert sand verbena bloom?
Desert sand verbena blooms Feb-Jul. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Desert sand verbena need?
Light: Sun. Water: Dry. Soil: Sandy. Mature height: 6-12 in.
Is Desert sand verbena good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Moths, butterflies.
Is Desert sand verbena deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Desert sand verbena is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy Desert sand verbena?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 24 Oct 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Abronia villosa by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Desert sand verbena.
- Brittlebush Encelia farinosa
- Chalk dudleya Dudleya pulverulenta
- Western redbud Cercis occidentalis
- Blue palo verde Parkinsonia florida
- Firecracker penstemon Penstemon eatonii
- Lacy phacelia Phacelia tanacetifolia
Also listed under
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