Papooseroot
Caulophyllum thalictroides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–18" W
Bloom
Apr, May
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 27 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Papooseroot is a woodland native perennial that produces delicate clusters of small yellow-green flowers in spring before developing blue berries. This shade-loving plant has attractive compound leaves and naturally forms small colonies over time.
In an HOA neighborhood
Papooseroot 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.
- Very woodland-wild appearance
- Goes completely dormant leaving bare spots
- Uncommon plant that looks unfamiliar to most people
Wildlife value
The spring flowers provide nectar for bees and beetles during early season when few other plants are blooming.
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 Papooseroot fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.