Skip to main content

Variegated-bract Blazingstar

Mentzelia montana

Last reviewed: August 2026

Variegated-bract Blazingstar (Mentzelia montana)
Photo: (c) Martin Purdy, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Martin Purdy

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

8"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Jun, Jul, Aug

Native to

AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles

Before you buy

Your city may pay you to plant this

Cities and water utilities offer rebates for replacing lawn with native and water-wise plants. We track 437 programs across 44 states, each with a link to the provider and the date we last checked it.

Find rebates in your area

Variegated-bract blazingstar is a compact native perennial that produces bright yellow star-shaped flowers from June through August. This drought-tolerant plant forms neat clumps and thrives in full sun with minimal water once established.

In an HOA neighborhood

Variegated-bract Blazingstar is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, foundation, street edge, mid zone.

  • Unknown winter appearance may concern some HOAs
  • May self-seed in favorable conditions

Wildlife value

The cheerful blooms attract native bees and beetles during the summer months. This plant provides important nectar sources for pollinators during the peak growing season.

Common questions

How much sun does Variegated-bract Blazingstar need?
Variegated-bract Blazingstar grows best in full sun conditions.
When does Variegated-bract Blazingstar bloom?
Variegated-bract Blazingstar blooms in June, July, and August.
Where is Variegated-bract Blazingstar native?
Variegated-bract Blazingstar (Mentzelia montana) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 7 more states, per the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew).
What pollinators does Variegated-bract Blazingstar attract?
Variegated-bract Blazingstar draws bees and beetles.
Is Variegated-bract Blazingstar HOA-friendly?
Variegated-bract Blazingstar is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.

Native range data from the World Checklist of Vascular Plants (Kew). Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Ready to grow Variegated-bract Blazingstar? 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