Jerusalem-oak
Dysphania botrys
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
UT
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Jerusalem-oak is a compact annual herb with distinctive lobed leaves that have a strong, aromatic scent. It produces small, inconspicuous greenish flowers in dense clusters from summer through early fall. This drought-tolerant plant thrives in poor soils and requires minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Jerusalem-oak 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.
- Has weedy appearance and growth habit
- Strong aromatic scent may be objectionable
- Annual lifecycle creates gaps in plantings
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles during its long blooming period from June through September. Seeds provide food for small birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Jerusalem-oak need?
- Jerusalem-oak grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Jerusalem-oak bloom?
- Jerusalem-oak blooms in June, July, August, and September.
- Where is Jerusalem-oak native?
- Jerusalem-oak (Dysphania botrys) is native to UT, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Jerusalem-oak attract?
- Jerusalem-oak draws bees and beetles.
- Is Jerusalem-oak HOA-friendly?
- Jerusalem-oak 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 Jerusalem-oak? 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