Texas Snakeweed
Gutierrezia sarothrae
Last reviewed: June 2026
Gutierrezia sarothrae is a drought-tolerant native shrub found across western and central United States. It produces small yellow flowers from March through November, attracting butterflies and bees.
Texas Snakeweed is listed as toxic to grazing livestock (cattle, sheep, and goats) at a slight level by the USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab). This is a livestock indicator and is separate from pet toxicity.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
12"–36" H × 12"–36" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 14 more states
Pollinators
butterflies, bees, nectar insects
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Texas Snakeweed is a compact native shrub that produces masses of small yellow flowers from spring through fall. This drought-tolerant plant maintains a bushy form and provides nearly year-round color in challenging growing conditions.
Growing Texas Snakeweed
Grow Texas Snakeweed in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 12 to 36 inches tall and spread 12 to 36 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Texas Snakeweed is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Requires annual shaping to stay compact
Wildlife value
The extended bloom period makes this an exceptional pollinator plant, supporting butterflies, bees, and other nectar-seeking insects for most of the growing season.
Common questions
- Where does Texas Snakeweed naturally grow?
- Texas Snakeweed is native to 18 states across the western and central United States, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.
- When does Gutierrezia sarothrae bloom?
- Texas Snakeweed has an exceptionally long blooming period, producing flowers from March through November. This extended flowering season makes it valuable for pollinators throughout much of the growing season.
- What pollinators visit Texas Snakeweed?
- Gutierrezia sarothrae attracts various pollinators including butterflies, bees, and other nectar-seeking insects. Its long bloom period provides a reliable nectar source for these beneficial insects.
- What growing conditions does Texas Snakeweed prefer?
- This native shrub thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions and tolerates low to medium water availability. Its drought tolerance makes it well-suited to arid and semi-arid regions.
- Is Texas Snakeweed toxic to livestock?
- Texas Snakeweed is listed as toxic to grazing livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats (slight severity) by the USDA PLANTS Database. This is separate from pet (dog and cat) toxicity.
- Is Texas Snakeweed HOA-friendly?
- Texas Snakeweed is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
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.
Does Texas Snakeweed fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.