Nineleaf Biscuitroot
Lomatium triternatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
ID, MT, OR, WA
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Nineleaf biscuitroot is a compact native perennial that produces clusters of small yellow flowers in early spring. The finely divided, fern-like foliage emerges in late winter and dies back to the ground by midsummer, entering dormancy until the next growing season.
In an HOA neighborhood
Nineleaf Biscuitroot 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.
- Completely dormant and invisible for half the year
- Unfamiliar appearance may be perceived as weedy
- Short blooming period followed by rapid senescence
Wildlife value
The early spring blooms provide crucial nectar for native bees and beetles when few other flowers are available. This plant is especially valuable for supporting solitary bees emerging from winter hibernation.
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.
Does Nineleaf Biscuitroot fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.