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Narrowleaf Gumweed

Grindelia lanceolata

Last reviewed: August 2026

Narrowleaf Gumweed (Grindelia lanceolata)
Photo: Mason Brock (Masebrock) / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

Toxicity unknown

Narrowleaf Gumweed (Grindelia lanceolata) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–24" H × 6"–12" W

Bloom

Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

AL, AR, KS, KY and 8 more states

Pollinators

bees, butterflies, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Narrowleaf gumweed is a compact prairie wildflower that produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers from July through September. This drought-tolerant perennial forms neat clumps and requires minimal care once established. The sticky flower buds and resinous foliage give the plant its distinctive 'gumweed' name.

In an HOA neighborhood

Narrowleaf Gumweed 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.

  • Sticky, resinous foliage may appear unkempt
  • Common name includes 'weed' which creates negative perception
  • Can look sparse and weedy when not in bloom

Wildlife value

The long blooming period provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout late summer. Seeds attract small birds and the plant serves as a host for some native moth species.

Common questions

How much sun does Narrowleaf Gumweed need?
Narrowleaf Gumweed grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Narrowleaf Gumweed bloom?
Narrowleaf Gumweed blooms in July, August, and September.
Where is Narrowleaf Gumweed native?
Narrowleaf Gumweed (Grindelia lanceolata) is native to AL, AR, KS, KY and 8 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Narrowleaf Gumweed attract?
Narrowleaf Gumweed draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
Is Narrowleaf Gumweed HOA-friendly?
Narrowleaf Gumweed 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 World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Narrowleaf Gumweed? 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