Platte River Groundsel
Packera plattensis
Last reviewed: June 2026
Packera plattensis (Platte River Groundsel) is a native forb blooming April through June across the Great Plains and Midwest. This yellow-flowered wildflower attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles in prairies and woodland edges.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AR, CO, GA, IA and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Packera plattensis is a native prairie wildflower that produces clusters of bright yellow daisy-like flowers from spring through early summer. This compact perennial forms neat clumps with attractive foliage and reliable blooms. It thrives in partial sun with average moisture conditions.
Growing Platte River Groundsel
Grow Platte River Groundsel in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 24 inches tall and spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Platte River Groundsel is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and beneficial beetles during its extended bloom period. This plant serves as an important early season nectar source for pollinators.
Common questions
- When does Packera plattensis bloom?
- Platte River Groundsel blooms from April through June, producing bright yellow daisy-like flowers that attract various pollinators.
- Where is Packera plattensis native?
- This species is native to 24 states across the Great Plains, Midwest, and parts of the South, including Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Missouri, and Texas among others.
- What pollinators visit Platte River Groundsel?
- Packera plattensis attracts bees, butterflies, and beetles with its yellow composite flowers during its spring and early summer bloom period.
- What growing conditions does Packera plattensis prefer?
- Platte River Groundsel tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and adapts to various moisture levels, making it versatile for prairie restorations and native gardens.
- Is Platte River Groundsel HOA-friendly?
- Platte River Groundsel is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Platte River Groundsel? 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