Rocky Mountain Butterweed
Packera streptanthifolia
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
6"–18" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rocky Mountain ragwort is a compact wildflower with bright yellow daisy-like blooms that appear from May through July. This low-growing perennial forms neat clumps with attractive foliage and reliable flowering in full sun conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rocky Mountain Butterweed 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.
- Ragwort name carries negative connotations
- Can look sparse when dormant
- May be perceived as weedy wildflower
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow flowers attract bees, butterflies, and beetles throughout the summer blooming period. This native plant provides important nectar sources for pollinators during peak growing season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Rocky Mountain Butterweed need?
- Rocky Mountain Butterweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Rocky Mountain Butterweed bloom?
- Rocky Mountain Butterweed blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Rocky Mountain Butterweed native?
- Rocky Mountain Butterweed (Packera streptanthifolia) is native to CA, CO, ID, MT and 6 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Rocky Mountain Butterweed attract?
- Rocky Mountain Butterweed draws bees, butterflies, and beetles.
- Is Rocky Mountain Butterweed HOA-friendly?
- Rocky Mountain Butterweed 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 Rocky Mountain Butterweed? 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