Sidalcea oregana
Sidalcea oregana (Torr. & A.Gray) A.Gray
Sidalcea oregana is a tall, showy perennial native to moist meadows and prairies of the Pacific Northwest, producing elegant spikes of pink to rosy-purple hollyhock-like flowers. It symbolizes endurance, wildness, and the living heritage of western landscapes.
Malvaceae (Mallow family)
June to August (summer)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: yellow silk floss flowers and sidalcea malvifloras also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
Oregon checkerbloom is named for the state of Oregon, where it is one of the most recognizable native mallow species of moist mountain meadows. As a key plant in Pacific Northwest prairie ecosystems, it plays an important role supporting native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Certain subspecies, including the Kenwood Marsh checkerbloom, are federally listed as endangered, making the broader species a symbol of both the beauty and the fragility of western native plant communities. It represents the enduring spirit of wild places that persist even under pressure.Shop Our Floral Collection
Transform your space with our curated selection of designer floral throw pillows
Visit Full StoreBotanical Information
Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade
Water
Prefers consistent moisture; tolerates seasonal dryness once established but performs best with reliable water through the growing season
Soil
Moist, Loamy, Clay-tolerant, Well-drained in summer, pH 6.0–7.5
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in moist, humus-rich soil in full sun for best flowering
Deadhead spent flower spikes to encourage repeat blooming
Cut back to the basal rosette in autumn to tidy and encourage fresh spring growth
Divide crowns every few years in early spring to maintain vigor
Note that several subspecies are federally listed as endangered; always source plants from reputable native nurseries
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Pollinator and native bee gardens
- Prairie and meadow-style plantings
- Moist borders and rain gardens
- Butterfly gardens
- Cut flower arrangements
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Sidalcea oregana
What does Sidalcea oregana symbolize?
Oregon checkerbloom symbolizes endurance, wild grace, and rooted strength. Named for Oregon, it represents the resilience of Pacific Northwest native plant communities and the beauty of moist prairie landscapes.
Is Sidalcea oregana endangered?
The species as a whole is globally secure, but several subspecies are federally listed as endangered in the United States, including the Kenwood Marsh checkerbloom and the Wenatchee Mountains checker-mallow, which have very restricted ranges.
How do you grow Oregon Checkerbloom?
Plant in moist, loamy soil in full sun to partial shade. Provide consistent moisture through the growing season and cut back to the basal rosette after flowering. It thrives in Pacific Northwest meadow gardens and moist prairie-style plantings.
What pollinators does Sidalcea oregana attract?
It is an excellent pollinator plant, attracting native bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The flowers are especially valuable to specialist native bees that rely on Sidalcea pollen.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
Share This Flower
Explore More Beautiful Flowers
Discover other flowers with similar meanings, characteristics, or cultural significance.
Yellow Silk Floss Flower
Ceiba speciosa (A.St.-Hil.) Ravenna
Silk floss flowers are spectacular pink to wine-red hibiscus-like blooms that appear on distinctive spiny-trunked trees in fall. Native to South American rainforests, these stunning flowers symbolize strength, tropical splendor, and the resilient beauty of nature.
Sidalcea malviflora
Sidalcea malviflora (DC.) A.Gray ex Benth.
Sidalcea malviflora is a graceful California native perennial bearing delicate hollyhock-like spikes of pink to rosy-purple flowers. It symbolizes resilience, gentle beauty, and the enduring spirit of the California coastal landscape.
Yellow Prairie Onion
Allium stellatum
Prairie Onion is a tough, drought-tolerant native bulb wildflower of the central North American prairies, rocky glades, and cliff edges. Its rounded clusters of starry pink to lavender blooms in the height of summer symbolize strength, resilience, and the ability to thrive in the most challenging conditions.