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Golden Colicroot

Aletris aurea

Last reviewed: June 2026

Golden Colicroot (Aletris aurea)
Photo: Alfred Schotz. USDA SCS. 1991. Southern wetland flora: Field office guide to plant species. South National Technical Center, Fort Worth, TX. / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Light

part sun

Water

medium

Size

6"–18" H × 3"–8" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AL, AR, FL, GA and 8 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Golden colicroot is a compact native perennial that forms small clumps of narrow, grass-like leaves. It produces delicate spikes of tiny yellow-white flowers in late spring and summer that add subtle texture to garden beds.

In an HOA neighborhood

Golden Colicroot 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.

  • Very small and inconspicuous appearance
  • Grass-like foliage may look unkempt
  • Flowers are tiny and not showy enough for front yard appeal

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during the blooming season from May through July.

Common questions

How much sun does Golden Colicroot need?
Golden Colicroot grows best in part sun conditions.
When does Golden Colicroot bloom?
Golden Colicroot blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Golden Colicroot native?
Golden Colicroot (Aletris aurea) is native to AL, AR, FL, GA and 8 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Golden Colicroot attract?
Golden Colicroot draws bees and beetles.
Is Golden Colicroot HOA-friendly?
Golden Colicroot 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 Golden Colicroot? 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