Whitestem Blazingstar
Mentzelia albicaulis
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–24" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Whitestem blazingstar is a compact annual wildflower that produces cheerful yellow blooms throughout the summer months. This drought-tolerant native grows in a neat, low mound and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Whitestem Blazingstar 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.
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage
- May be viewed as too wild or weedy
- Common name includes 'blazingstar' which sounds aggressive
Wildlife value
The bright yellow flowers attract native bees and beetles during its long blooming period from late spring through summer.
Common questions
- How much sun does Whitestem Blazingstar need?
- Whitestem Blazingstar grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Whitestem Blazingstar bloom?
- Whitestem Blazingstar blooms in May, June, July, and August.
- Where is Whitestem Blazingstar native?
- Whitestem Blazingstar (Mentzelia albicaulis) is native to AZ, CA, CO, ID and 10 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Whitestem Blazingstar attract?
- Whitestem Blazingstar draws bees and beetles.
- Is Whitestem Blazingstar HOA-friendly?
- Whitestem Blazingstar 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 Whitestem 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