Hoary Frostweed
Crocanthemum bicknellii
- Native to:
- Canada, United States, Virgin Islands
iNaturalist: © douggoldman (iNaturalist #169562742)






Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Cistaceae
- Genus:
- Crocanthemum
- Species:
- Crocanthemum bicknellii
- USDA Symbol:
- HEBI2
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb , Subshrub
- Height:
- 60 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- jun,jul,aug
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees, butterflies
- Deer Resistant:
- Yes
- Fire Ecology:
- Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
- Fire Notes:
- Responds positively to fire in prairie habitats; may increase flowering after burn.
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- sandy, nutrient-poor, well-drained soil
- pH:
- 5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- prefers open, sunny habitats
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 30-60 days; sow on surface or lightly covered.
Where to Buy
Nationwide Seller
- Prairie Moon Nursery (nursery and seeds)