Smooth False Foxglove
Aureolaria flava
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
low
Size
12"–36" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
Jul, Aug, Sep
Native to
AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Smooth false foxglove produces bright yellow trumpet-shaped flowers from summer through early fall on upright stems. This native wildflower thrives in partial sun with minimal watering once established. The plant goes dormant in winter, returning each spring from its perennial root system.
In an HOA neighborhood
Smooth False Foxglove 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.
- Looks weedy and wild compared to typical garden plants
- Dies back completely in winter leaving bare spots
- May spread unpredictably and look unkempt
Wildlife value
Host plant for common buckeye butterfly.
The tubular yellow flowers attract native bees and butterflies during the long blooming period from July through September. This plant serves as a host for several butterfly species and provides nectar for pollinators when many other flowers have finished blooming.
Common questions
- How much sun does Smooth False Foxglove need?
- Smooth False Foxglove grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Smooth False Foxglove bloom?
- Smooth False Foxglove blooms in July, August, and September.
- Where is Smooth False Foxglove native?
- Smooth False Foxglove (Aureolaria flava) is native to AL, AR, CT, DE and 26 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Smooth False Foxglove host?
- Smooth False Foxglove is a larval host plant for common buckeye butterfly.
- Is Smooth False Foxglove HOA-friendly?
- Smooth False Foxglove 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 Smooth False Foxglove? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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