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Tumble Mustard

Sisymbrium altissimum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Tumble Mustard (Sisymbrium altissimum)
Photo: (c) Steve Matson, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Steve Matson

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

12"–48" H × 6"–24" W

Bloom

May, Jun

Native to

WY

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Tumble mustard is a tall annual wildflower that produces small yellow flowers in late spring and early summer. This drought-tolerant plant grows quickly and breaks away at the base when mature, rolling in the wind to disperse seeds.

In an HOA neighborhood

Tumble Mustard takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: high. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.

Works well in: backyard only.

  • Considered a noxious weed in many areas
  • Tumbleweed growth habit creates mess
  • Can spread aggressively and look unkempt

Wildlife value

The flowers attract bees and beetles during the blooming period in May and June.

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 Tumble Mustard fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.