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Slender Draba

Draba albertina

Last reviewed: June 2026

Slender Draba (Draba albertina)
Photo: (c) Andrey Zharkikh, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

2"–8" H × 1"–4" W

Bloom

May, Jun, Jul

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Slender draba is a tiny alpine perennial that forms small, compact mats close to the ground. This diminutive wildflower produces clusters of small white or yellow flowers in late spring and summer, creating delicate patches of color in rock gardens or alpine settings.

In an HOA neighborhood

Slender Draba 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.

  • Extremely small size makes it appear sparse or incomplete
  • Alpine appearance looks too wild for formal landscapes
  • May be mistaken for weeds or bare spots

Wildlife value

The small flowers attract native bees and beetles during its bloom period from May through July. Its compact size makes it useful as a minor nectar source in specialized garden settings.

Common questions

How much sun does Slender Draba need?
Slender Draba grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Slender Draba bloom?
Slender Draba blooms in May, June, and July.
Where is Slender Draba native?
Slender Draba (Draba albertina) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Slender Draba attract?
Slender Draba draws bees and beetles.
Is Slender Draba HOA-friendly?
Slender Draba 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 Slender Draba? 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