Northern Horsebalm
Collinsonia canadensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Northern Horsebalm is a native woodland perennial found throughout eastern North America, blooming with fragrant yellow flower spikes from July through September. This shade-tolerant plant attracts bees and butterflies to forest gardens.
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 23 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Northern horsebalm is a native woodland perennial that produces spikes of small yellow flowers from summer into early fall. It forms clumps of heart-shaped leaves and thrives in partially shaded areas with consistent moisture.
Growing Northern Horsebalm
Grow Northern Horsebalm in part shade and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 24 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Northern Horsebalm 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.
- Uncommon plant that may appear weedy to neighbors
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
- Informal woodland appearance doesn't fit typical landscaping
Wildlife value
The summer and fall blooms attract various bees and butterflies when few other native plants are flowering. This makes it particularly valuable for late-season pollinator support.
Common questions
- When does Northern Horsebalm bloom?
- Northern Horsebalm produces its distinctive yellow flower spikes from July through September, providing late-season nectar when many other woodland plants have finished blooming.
- What pollinators visit Northern Horsebalm?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Northern Horsebalm, attracted to its fragrant yellow flowers and abundant nectar during late summer months.
- Where is Northern Horsebalm native?
- Northern Horsebalm is native to eastern North America, ranging from New Hampshire south to Florida and west to Wisconsin, Missouri, and Louisiana, typically growing in rich, moist woodlands.
- What growing conditions does Northern Horsebalm prefer?
- This woodland perennial thrives in partial shade to full shade with consistently moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter, making it ideal for naturalized forest gardens.
- Is Northern Horsebalm HOA-friendly?
- Northern Horsebalm 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 Northern Horsebalm? 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