How much sun does Leafy Arnica need?

Leafy Arnica grows best in full sun conditions.

When does Leafy Arnica bloom?

Leafy Arnica blooms in June, July, and August.

Where is Leafy Arnica native?

Leafy Arnica (Arnica chamissonis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.

Is Leafy Arnica toxic to livestock?

The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Leafy Arnica as toxic to livestock.

What pollinators does Leafy Arnica attract?

Leafy Arnica draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.

Is Leafy Arnica HOA-friendly?

Leafy Arnica is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Leafy Arnica

Name: Pollinator Patch
Author: Pollinator Patch

Arnica chamissonis

Last reviewed: June 2026

The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Leafy Arnica as toxic to livestock.

Light

full sun

Water

medium

Size

12"–24" H × 12"–18" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Sierra Nevada Southern California Mountains Central Basin and Range

Leafy arnica is a compact native wildflower that produces bright yellow, daisy-like blooms throughout the summer months. This low-growing perennial forms neat clumps with attractive foliage and reliable flowering. It thrives in full sun with moderate water needs.

In an HOA neighborhood

Leafy Arnica is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Goes dormant in winter leaving bare spots

Wildlife value

The cheerful yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles during the long summer blooming period. This native plant provides valuable nectar sources when many other flowers have finished blooming.

Common questions

How much sun does Leafy Arnica need?: Leafy Arnica grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Leafy Arnica bloom?: Leafy Arnica blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Leafy Arnica native?: Leafy Arnica (Arnica chamissonis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
Is Leafy Arnica toxic to livestock?: The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Leafy Arnica as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Leafy Arnica attract?: Leafy Arnica draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Is Leafy Arnica HOA-friendly?: Leafy Arnica is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

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 Leafy Arnica? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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