Tassel-rue
Trautvetteria caroliniensis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, AZ, CA and 19 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tassel-rue is a native perennial wildflower with attractive maple-like leaves and fluffy white flower clusters that bloom from spring through summer. This shade-loving plant forms neat clumps and goes dormant in winter, making it ideal for naturalized woodland gardens.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tassel-rue 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.
- Disappears completely in winter leaving bare spots
- Wild woodland appearance may look unkempt
- Uncommon plant that HOAs may not recognize as intentional landscaping
Wildlife value
The white tassel-like flowers attract native bees and beetles during the long blooming season from May through July.
Common questions
- How much sun does Tassel-rue need?
- Tassel-rue grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Tassel-rue bloom?
- Tassel-rue blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Tassel-rue native?
- Tassel-rue (Trautvetteria caroliniensis) is native to AL, AR, AZ, CA and 19 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Tassel-rue attract?
- Tassel-rue draws bees and beetles.
- Is Tassel-rue HOA-friendly?
- Tassel-rue 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 Tassel-rue? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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