How much sun does Cut-Leaf Ironplant need?

Cut-Leaf Ironplant grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Cut-Leaf Ironplant bloom?

Cut-Leaf Ironplant blooms in June, July, August, and September.

Where is Cut-Leaf Ironplant native?

Cut-Leaf Ironplant (Xanthisma spinulosum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

What pollinators does Cut-Leaf Ironplant attract?

Cut-Leaf Ironplant draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.

Is Cut-Leaf Ironplant HOA-friendly?

Cut-Leaf Ironplant is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Cut-Leaf Ironplant

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Xanthisma spinulosum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, IA and 12 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Central Basin and Range Mojave Basin and Range Chihuahuan Deserts Central Oklahoma/Texas Plains Edwards Plateau Southern Texas Plains Western Gulf Coastal Plain Sonoran Basin and Range

Spiny goldaster is a small native wildflower that produces bright yellow daisy-like blooms from summer through early fall. This compact annual thrives in sunny, dry conditions and requires minimal care once established. Its small stature makes it suitable for front borders or mixed plantings.

In an HOA neighborhood

Cut-Leaf Ironplant is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Annual nature requires replanting each year
May self-seed unpredictably

Wildlife value

The cheerful yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles throughout the growing season. As a native plant, it provides important nectar sources during late summer when many other flowers have finished blooming.

Common questions

How much sun does Cut-Leaf Ironplant need?: Cut-Leaf Ironplant grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Cut-Leaf Ironplant bloom?: Cut-Leaf Ironplant blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Cut-Leaf Ironplant native?: Cut-Leaf Ironplant (Xanthisma spinulosum) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 12 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Cut-Leaf Ironplant attract?: Cut-Leaf Ironplant draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Is Cut-Leaf Ironplant HOA-friendly?: Cut-Leaf Ironplant is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Cut-Leaf Ironplant? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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