Rough Bugelweed
Lycopus asper
Last reviewed: June 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Rough Bugelweed as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, IA and 22 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Rough bugelweed is a native perennial herb that grows 1-3 feet tall with small white flowers in summer. It thrives in partial sun with moderate water needs and spreads slowly to form small colonies. The plant goes dormant in winter, returning each spring with fresh foliage.
In an HOA neighborhood
Rough Bugelweed takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Requires consistently wet conditions that may look messy
- Can spread aggressively and appear weedy
- Dies back completely leaving bare stems in winter
Wildlife value
This plant attracts bees, beetles, and flies during its July through September blooming period. It provides nectar for various native pollinators and beneficial insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Rough Bugelweed need?
- Rough Bugelweed grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Rough Bugelweed bloom?
- Rough Bugelweed blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Rough Bugelweed native?
- Rough Bugelweed (Lycopus asper) is native to AZ, CA, CO, IA and 22 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Rough Bugelweed toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Rough Bugelweed as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Rough Bugelweed attract?
- Rough Bugelweed draws bees, beetles, and flies.
- Is Rough Bugelweed HOA-friendly?
- Rough Bugelweed 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 Rough Bugelweed? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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