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Nineleaf Biscuitroot

Lomatium triternatum

Last reviewed: August 2026

Nineleaf Biscuitroot (Lomatium triternatum)
Photo: Matt Berger / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

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

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

Before you buy

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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.

Common questions

How much sun does Nineleaf Biscuitroot need?
Nineleaf Biscuitroot grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Nineleaf Biscuitroot bloom?
Nineleaf Biscuitroot blooms in March, April, and May.
Where is Nineleaf Biscuitroot native?
Nineleaf Biscuitroot (Lomatium triternatum) is native to ID, MT, OR, WA, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
Is Nineleaf Biscuitroot toxic to livestock?
The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Nineleaf Biscuitroot as toxic to livestock.
What pollinators does Nineleaf Biscuitroot attract?
Nineleaf Biscuitroot draws bees and beetles.
Is Nineleaf Biscuitroot HOA-friendly?
Nineleaf Biscuitroot 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 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 Nineleaf Biscuitroot? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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