Narrowleaf Mule-ears
Wyethia angustifolia
Last reviewed: August 2026
Wyethia angustifolia (California Compassplant) is a native perennial forb found in California, Oregon, and Washington that produces bright yellow sunflower-like blooms from May through July.
Narrowleaf Mule-ears (Wyethia angustifolia) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
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This native perennial has large, bright yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom atop tall stems from late spring through summer. Its narrow, lance-shaped leaves form a basal rosette, giving it a somewhat organized appearance when in bloom. The plant is drought-tolerant and thrives in full sun, requiring minimal water once established.
Growing Narrowleaf Mule-ears
Grow Narrowleaf Mule-ears in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Narrowleaf Mule-ears is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Can appear somewhat wild and informal when in full bloom
- Goes dormant in summer heat, potentially looking untidy
- Reseeds moderately; may spread beyond intended areas
Wildlife value
The showy yellow flowers are valuable nectar sources for native bees, butterflies, and beetles. Seeds also provide food for birds after the blooming period.
Common questions
- When does Wyethia angustifolia bloom?
- California Compassplant typically blooms from May through July, producing large yellow flower heads that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit California Compassplant?
- Wyethia angustifolia attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its bright yellow flowers during the summer blooming period.
- Where is Wyethia angustifolia native?
- California Compassplant is native to the western United States, specifically found in California, Oregon, and Washington.
- What growing conditions does California Compassplant prefer?
- Wyethia angustifolia thrives in full sun conditions with low water requirements, making it well-adapted to dry western climates.
- Is Narrowleaf Mule-ears toxic to dogs?
- Narrowleaf Mule-ears is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is Narrowleaf Mule-ears toxic to cats?
- Narrowleaf Mule-ears is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is Narrowleaf Mule-ears HOA-friendly?
- Narrowleaf Mule-ears is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Narrowleaf Mule-ears? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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