Arrowleaf Balsamroot
Balsamorhiza sagittata
Last reviewed: July 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Arrowleaf Balsamroot as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Arrowleaf balsamroot is a robust native perennial with large, arrow-shaped leaves and bright yellow sunflower-like blooms in late spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant plant forms attractive clumps and goes dormant in late summer, with foliage dying back completely. It's well-suited for xeric gardens and naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Arrowleaf Balsamroot takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare spots mid-summer
- Large leaves can appear coarse or weedy to some
- May be viewed as too wild or naturalized for formal landscapes
Wildlife value
The large yellow flowers are magnets for native bees and butterflies during the bloom period. Seeds provide food for birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- How much sun does Arrowleaf Balsamroot need?
- Arrowleaf Balsamroot grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Arrowleaf Balsamroot bloom?
- Arrowleaf Balsamroot blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Arrowleaf Balsamroot native?
- Arrowleaf Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza sagittata) is native to CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Arrowleaf Balsamroot toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Arrowleaf Balsamroot as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Arrowleaf Balsamroot attract?
- Arrowleaf Balsamroot draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Arrowleaf Balsamroot HOA-friendly?
- Arrowleaf Balsamroot takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Arrowleaf Balsamroot? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz