Nineleaf Biscuitroot
Lomatium triternatum
Last reviewed: June 2026
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
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.
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 the USDA PLANTS Database 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 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 Nineleaf Biscuitroot? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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