Tansy Mustard
Descurainia pinnata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
8"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 35 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tansy mustard is a slender annual wildflower that produces clusters of tiny yellow flowers from April through June. This drought-tolerant native grows 8-24 inches tall with finely divided, feathery leaves that give it a delicate appearance.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tansy Mustard 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.
- Annual lifecycle creates gaps in plantings
- Can appear weedy and informal
- May self-seed unpredictably
Wildlife value
The small yellow flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during spring and early summer blooming periods.
Common questions
- How much sun does Tansy Mustard need?
- Tansy Mustard grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Tansy Mustard bloom?
- Tansy Mustard blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Tansy Mustard native?
- Tansy Mustard (Descurainia pinnata) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 35 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Tansy Mustard attract?
- Tansy Mustard draws bees and beetles.
- Is Tansy Mustard HOA-friendly?
- Tansy Mustard 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 Tansy Mustard? 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