Tower Mustard
Arabis glabra
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CO
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tower mustard is a tall, slender biennial that produces small white flowers along upright stems from May through July. This native wildflower thrives in partial shade with minimal water, making it suitable for low-maintenance naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tower 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.
- Can appear weedy and unkempt
- Tall growth may look wild or unmanaged
- Biennial lifecycle creates inconsistent appearance
Wildlife value
The flowers attract native bees and beetles during its extended bloom period in late spring and summer.
Common questions
- How much sun does Tower Mustard need?
- Tower Mustard grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Tower Mustard bloom?
- Tower Mustard blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Tower Mustard native?
- Tower Mustard (Arabis glabra) is native to CO, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Tower Mustard attract?
- Tower Mustard draws bees and beetles.
- Is Tower Mustard HOA-friendly?
- Tower 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 Tower 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