Curly-cup Gumweed
Grindelia squarrosa
Last reviewed: June 2026
Grindelia squarrosa (Curly-cup Gumweed) is a drought-tolerant native wildflower blooming yellow from June through September across most US states. This sun-loving forb attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles to prairie and disturbed sites.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AR, AZ, CA, CO and 35 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Curly-cup gumweed is a sturdy prairie native with bright yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom from June through September. This compact perennial forms low mounds and tolerates drought extremely well once established. The flowers have distinctive curved bracts that curl backward, giving the plant its common name.
Growing Curly-cup Gumweed
Grow Curly-cup Gumweed in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 6 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 18 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Curly-cup Gumweed 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.
- Common name includes 'weed' which creates negative perception
- Can look scraggly and unkempt when not blooming
- May be considered too wild-looking for formal landscapes
Wildlife value
This plant is a pollinator powerhouse, attracting bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles throughout its long bloom season. The seeds also provide food for birds in late fall.
Common questions
- When does Curly-cup Gumweed bloom?
- Grindelia squarrosa blooms from June through September, producing bright yellow flower heads throughout the summer and early fall.
- What pollinators visit Curly-cup Gumweed?
- Curly-cup Gumweed attracts various pollinators including native bees, butterflies, and beetles. The abundant nectar and pollen make it valuable for pollinator gardens.
- Where is Grindelia squarrosa native?
- Curly-cup Gumweed is native to most US states from coast to coast, including western states like California and Montana, midwestern prairie states, and eastern states from Maine to Virginia.
- What growing conditions does Curly-cup Gumweed prefer?
- This hardy wildflower thrives in full sun with low water requirements, making it excellent for xeriscaping and low-maintenance native plant gardens in disturbed or prairie-like conditions.
- Is Curly-cup Gumweed HOA-friendly?
- Curly-cup Gumweed 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 Curly-cup Gumweed? 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