Gray Tansy Mustard
Descurainia incana
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, ME and 11 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Descurainia incana is a small native annual wildflower that produces clusters of tiny yellow flowers from May through July. This drought-tolerant plant grows in a loose, branching form and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Gray 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.
- Very informal growth habit appears weedy
- Annual lifespan creates gaps in plantings
- Small stature and wild appearance don't meet typical landscape standards
Wildlife value
The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring and early summer blooming period. Seeds provide food for small birds and the foliage may support native moth and butterfly larvae.
Common questions
- How much sun does Gray Tansy Mustard need?
- Gray Tansy Mustard grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Gray Tansy Mustard bloom?
- Gray Tansy Mustard blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Gray Tansy Mustard native?
- Gray Tansy Mustard (Descurainia incana) is native to CA, CO, ID, ME and 11 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Gray Tansy Mustard attract?
- Gray Tansy Mustard draws bees and beetles.
- Is Gray Tansy Mustard HOA-friendly?
- Gray Tansy Mustard 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 Gray Tansy Mustard? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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