Bractless Blazingstar
Mentzelia nuda
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO, IL, KS, MN and 8 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Mentzelia nuda is a native prairie wildflower that produces bright yellow, star-shaped flowers during summer months. This drought-tolerant perennial thrives in full sun and requires minimal water once established. It forms compact clumps with a relatively neat growth habit compared to other prairie plants.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bractless Blazingstar 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.
- Unfamiliar wildflower appearance may be seen as weedy
- Unknown dormancy appearance could look untidy
- May not fit conventional landscaping expectations
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow blooms attract native bees and beetles during the summer flowering period. Its seeds may provide food for birds later in the season.
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.
Does Bractless Blazingstar fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.