Cowbane
Oxypolis rigidior
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
24"–60" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Cowbane is a tall native perennial with clusters of small white flowers that bloom from summer into early fall. This wetland plant thrives in consistently moist to wet soils and partial sun conditions. It forms clumps that can reach up to 5 feet tall with an upright, somewhat formal appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cowbane 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.
- Name includes 'bane' which may concern neighbors
- Requires consistently wet conditions uncommon in typical yards
- Can appear wild and unstructured to conservative tastes
Wildlife value
The umbrella-shaped flower clusters attract a variety of pollinators including native bees, beetles, and 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.
Does Cowbane fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.