Rock-goldenrod
Petradoria pumila
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 4 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rock-goldenrod is a compact native perennial that forms low mounds of small, narrow leaves. It produces clusters of bright yellow flowers from July through September, creating cheerful color during the hottest months.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rock-goldenrod 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 informal appearance resembles a weed
- Goes completely dormant in winter leaving bare spots
- Small stature makes it appear unintentional in formal landscapes
Wildlife value
The abundant yellow blooms attract bees and butterflies during late summer when many other plants have finished flowering.
Common questions
- How much sun does Rock-goldenrod need?
- Rock-goldenrod grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Rock-goldenrod bloom?
- Rock-goldenrod blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Rock-goldenrod native?
- Rock-goldenrod (Petradoria pumila) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 4 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Rock-goldenrod attract?
- Rock-goldenrod draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Rock-goldenrod HOA-friendly?
- Rock-goldenrod 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 Rock-goldenrod? 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