Melampodium leucanthum grows no taller than twelve inches but spreads to twice that, forming a neat dome of narrow grayish-green leaves studded with white flowers from late spring until frost. It is native to the rocky limestone and caliche soils of the southern Great Plains and Chihuahuan desert, which explains its indifference to poor, dry ground. The white rays and yellow centers are clean and uniform, and the mild honey scent draws butterflies reliably through the season.

Hard drainage is the one non-negotiable: standing water will kill it faster than drought. In late winter, cutting the plant back by half keeps it compact and encourages a flush of new growth, though it will also bloom without intervention. Because it grows from a deep taproot, division is not an option — propagate by seed or buy container plants. Birds are drawn to the ripening seeds, so if self-seeding is unwanted, deadheading is worth the effort. In humid climates, keep it lean and open to reduce the risk of powdery mildew.