Showy Locoweed
Oxytropis splendens
Last reviewed: June 2026
Showy Locoweed (Oxytropis splendens) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org, last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–12" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CO, MN, MT, ND and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees
Showy locoweed is a compact prairie perennial with silvery-green foliage and bright purple flower spikes that bloom through summer. This low-growing plant forms neat clumps and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Showy Locoweed 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.
- Name contains 'locoweed' which raises toxicity concerns
- May appear too wild or weedy for formal landscapes
- Unfamiliar to most homeowners and HOA boards
Wildlife value
The purple flowers attract native bees and other pollinators during the long summer bloom period. This legume also fixes nitrogen in the soil, benefiting surrounding plants.
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 Showy Locoweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.