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Arrowleaf Butterweed

Senecio triangularis

Last reviewed: June 2026

Arrowleaf Butterweed (Senecio triangularis)
Photo: Pieter Pelser / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

Arrowleaf Butterweed is toxic to dogs and cats.

Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.

Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.

Light

part sun

Water

high

Size

12"–48" H × 6"–24" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 6 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, flies

Arrowleaf butterweed is a native wildflower that produces clusters of bright yellow daisy-like blooms from June through August. This moisture-loving perennial thrives in partial sun and can reach up to 4 feet tall, making it ideal for areas with consistent water availability.

In an HOA neighborhood

Arrowleaf Butterweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Name contains 'weed' which creates negative perception
  • Can appear quite wild and informal in growth habit
  • Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots

Wildlife value

The bright yellow flowers attract a diverse range of pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beneficial flies during the summer blooming period.

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.

Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Arrowleaf Butterweed and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.