Common Woolly Sunflower
Eriophyllum lanatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Eriophyllum lanatum is a drought-tolerant native wildflower found across western North America that produces bright yellow daisy-like blooms from May through August.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, ID, MT, NV and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Common woolly sunflower is a compact perennial with silvery-gray foliage and bright yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom from May through August. This drought-tolerant native forms neat mounds and requires minimal care once established. The woolly leaves provide interesting texture and color contrast in garden beds.
Growing Common Woolly Sunflower
Grow Common Woolly Sunflower in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 8 to 24 inches tall and spread 12 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Common Woolly Sunflower 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.
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
Wildlife value
Attracts diverse pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout its long blooming season. The seeds provide food for birds in late summer and fall.
Common questions
- Where does Common Woolly Sunflower grow naturally?
- Eriophyllum lanatum is native to nine western states including California, Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, and South Dakota.
- When does Common Woolly Sunflower bloom?
- This wildflower typically blooms from May through August, producing clusters of bright yellow flower heads throughout the summer months.
- What pollinators visit Common Woolly Sunflower?
- The flowers attract various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations.
- What growing conditions does Eriophyllum lanatum prefer?
- Common Woolly Sunflower thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions with low to moderate water requirements, making it well-suited for xeriscaping and drought-tolerant gardens.
- Is Common Woolly Sunflower HOA-friendly?
- Common Woolly Sunflower 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 Common Woolly Sunflower? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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