Zexmenia

Zexmenia brings months of warm color to sunny landscapes with remarkably little fuss. Golden, daisy-like flowers appear above rough-textured green foliage from late spring through summer and often continue into fall. Its loose, rounded habit feels natural and relaxed, making it an easy fit for pollinator gardens, prairie-inspired borders, slopes, and informal foundation plantings.

Native to Texas, the Southwest, and northern Mexico, Zexmenia is well adapted to heat, intense sun, and periodic drought. Its flowers attract butterflies, native bees, and beneficial insects throughout the warm season, while its foliage may also support the caterpillars of several native butterfly and moth species. Because it continues blooming during the hottest part of summer, it helps provide floral resources when many spring wildflowers have already faded.

Zexmenia typically grows 1–3 feet tall and may spread into a broad, shrubby mound. It performs well in rocky, sandy, or limestone-based soils and can tolerate light shade, though full sun generally produces the densest growth and most abundant flowering. In mild climates it may remain semi-evergreen, while colder weather can cause it to die back before returning from the crown in spring.

• Plant Zexmenia in full sun to light shade and well-drained soil, watering regularly only while it becomes established.
• Cut back frost-damaged or woody stems in late winter or early spring.
• Lightly trim after a major bloom flush if a denser, more compact shape is desired.