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Rocky Mountain Butterweed

Packera streptanthifolia

Last reviewed: June 2026

Rocky Mountain Butterweed (Packera streptanthifolia)
Photo: Dave Powell, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

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.

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 Rocky Mountain Butterweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.