Golden Hedge-Hyssop
Gratiola aurea
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
high
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
NJ
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Golden hedge hyssop is a small native perennial that forms compact mats of bright green foliage. It produces tiny golden-yellow flowers throughout summer and thrives in consistently moist conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Golden Hedge-Hyssop takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very small flowers may appear insignificant
- High water needs could create maintenance challenges
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and provide nectar for butterflies during the long blooming season from May through August.
Common questions
- How much sun does Golden Hedge-Hyssop need?
- Golden Hedge-Hyssop grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Golden Hedge-Hyssop bloom?
- Golden Hedge-Hyssop blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Golden Hedge-Hyssop native?
- Golden Hedge-Hyssop (Gratiola aurea) is native to NJ, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Golden Hedge-Hyssop attract?
- Golden Hedge-Hyssop draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Golden Hedge-Hyssop HOA-friendly?
- Golden Hedge-Hyssop 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 Hedge-Hyssop? 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