Redroot
Ceanothus herbaceus
Last reviewed: June 2026
Ceanothus herbaceus (Redroot) is a native shrub blooming white flowers from June through August across much of central and eastern North America. This drought-tolerant plant attracts bees and butterflies to prairie and woodland edge habitats.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AR, CO, IA, IL and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Redroot is a low-growing native shrub that produces clusters of small white flowers from June through August. This drought-tolerant plant forms a compact mound and goes dormant in winter, losing its leaves completely.
Growing Redroot
Grow Redroot in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Redroot 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.
- Completely bare and stick-like when dormant in winter
- Informal growth habit may appear unkempt
- Not widely recognized as ornamental landscaping
Wildlife value
Host plant for spring azure, mottled dusky wing.
The summer blooms attract native bees and butterflies, providing nectar during the peak growing season. The dense branching structure can also provide nesting sites for small birds.
Common questions
- When does Ceanothus herbaceus bloom?
- Redroot blooms from June through August, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Ceanothus herbaceus?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Redroot, drawn to its abundant summer flowers.
- Where is Ceanothus herbaceus native?
- Redroot is native to 26 states spanning from Texas and New Mexico north to Montana and the Dakotas, and east through the Great Lakes region to New England.
- What growing conditions does Redroot prefer?
- Ceanothus herbaceus thrives in full sun with low water requirements, making it excellent for xeriscaping and native prairie gardens.
- Is Redroot HOA-friendly?
- Redroot 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 Redroot? 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