Tansy Mustard
Descurainia sophia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
SC
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tansy mustard is a small annual wildflower with finely divided, feathery foliage and tiny yellow flowers arranged in loose clusters. It blooms from spring through fall, providing consistent color in sunny, dry locations. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in poor soils and requires minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tansy Mustard 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 'mustard' which sounds weedy
- Can spread aggressively by self-seeding
- May appear unkempt or wild to neighbors
Wildlife value
The long blooming period supports bees and beetles throughout most of the growing season. As a member of the mustard family, it also serves as a host plant for some butterfly species.
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 Tansy Mustard fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.