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Stiffleaf False Goldenaster

Heterotheca stenophylla

Last reviewed: September 2026

Stiffleaf False Goldenaster (Heterotheca stenophylla)
Photo: (c) Cody Stricker, some rights reserved (CC BY)

Toxicity unknown

Stiffleaf False Goldenaster (Heterotheca stenophylla) is not listed by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) or the other sources we check, so we have no verdict for it either way. Absence from those lists is not a clearance. If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

4"–12" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep

Native to

CO, TX

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 452 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

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Heterotheca stenophylla is a compact native wildflower that forms low mounds of narrow leaves topped with bright yellow daisy-like flowers. This drought-tolerant perennial blooms from June through September, providing consistent color through the growing season. Its small stature and tidy growth habit make it suitable for front borders and rock gardens.

In an HOA neighborhood

Stiffleaf False Goldenaster is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

Wildlife value

The abundant yellow flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles throughout the long bloom period. This plant serves as an important late-season nectar source when many other flowers have finished blooming.

Common questions

How much sun does Stiffleaf False Goldenaster need?
Stiffleaf False Goldenaster grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Stiffleaf False Goldenaster bloom?
Stiffleaf False Goldenaster blooms in June, July, August, and September.
Where is Stiffleaf False Goldenaster native?
Stiffleaf False Goldenaster (Heterotheca stenophylla) is native to CO, TX, per vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists.
What pollinators does Stiffleaf False Goldenaster attract?
Stiffleaf False Goldenaster draws bees and beetles.
Is Stiffleaf False Goldenaster HOA-friendly?
Stiffleaf False Goldenaster is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

If something looks wrong

Common plant problems, and what to check first

These come up on almost any plant. Each guide lists the likely causes in the order they are worth ruling out, with one thing to check before you act on any of them, and links to the source it came from.

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Ready to grow Stiffleaf False Goldenaster? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.

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