Woolly Hawkweed
Hieracium triste
Last reviewed: June 2026

Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
6"–24" H × 6"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
King devil hawkweed is a low-growing perennial wildflower with bright yellow daisy-like blooms that appear throughout summer. This drought-tolerant native forms compact clumps and thrives in sunny, dry conditions with minimal care.
In an HOA neighborhood
Woolly Hawkweed 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.
- Often viewed as a weed by conventional gardeners
- Can spread aggressively and may be considered invasive
- Dandelion-like appearance may trigger weed complaints
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow flowers attract native bees and beneficial beetles during the long summer blooming period. Seeds also provide food for small birds and wildlife.
Common questions
- How much sun does Woolly Hawkweed need?
- Woolly Hawkweed grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Woolly Hawkweed bloom?
- Woolly Hawkweed blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Woolly Hawkweed native?
- Woolly Hawkweed (Hieracium triste) is native to CA, CO, ID, MT and 5 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Woolly Hawkweed attract?
- Woolly Hawkweed draws bees and beetles.
- Is Woolly Hawkweed HOA-friendly?
- Woolly Hawkweed 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 Woolly Hawkweed? 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