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Canada Frostweed

Crocanthemum canadense

Last reviewed: August 2026

Canada Frostweed (Crocanthemum canadense)
Photo: (c) aarongunnar, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by aarongunnar

Toxicity unknown

Canada Frostweed (Crocanthemum canadense) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 6"–18" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, CT, DE, GA and 23 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 445 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Hoary frostweed is a low-growing native wildflower that forms neat mats of small, oval leaves topped with bright yellow flowers in late spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sandy soils and full sun, making it ideal for challenging dry sites. The compact growth habit and cheerful blooms make it suitable for rock gardens and naturalized areas.

In an HOA neighborhood

Canada Frostweed is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: foundation, mid zone.

  • May appear sparse or weedy outside of bloom period
  • Name includes 'weed' which could raise HOA concerns

Wildlife value

The bright yellow flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during its May through July bloom period. This native plant provides important early season nectar when many other flowers are not yet available.

Common questions

How much sun does Canada Frostweed need?
Canada Frostweed grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Canada Frostweed bloom?
Canada Frostweed blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Canada Frostweed native?
Canada Frostweed (Crocanthemum canadense) is native to AL, CT, DE, GA and 23 more states, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Canada Frostweed attract?
Canada Frostweed draws bees and beetles.
Is Canada Frostweed HOA-friendly?
Canada Frostweed is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Canada Frostweed? 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