Tumble Mustard
Sisymbrium altissimum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 6"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
WY
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Tumble Mustard need?
- Tumble Mustard grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Tumble Mustard bloom?
- Tumble Mustard blooms in May and June.
- Where is Tumble Mustard native?
- Tumble Mustard (Sisymbrium altissimum) is native to WY, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Tumble Mustard attract?
- Tumble Mustard draws bees and beetles.
- Is Tumble Mustard HOA-friendly?
- Tumble 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 Tumble 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