Woolly Mule-Ears
Wyethia mollis
Last reviewed: July 2026
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Woolly Mule-Ears as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–24" H × 12"–24" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
CA, NV, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Wyethia mollis, commonly known as Woolly Mule Ears, is a native perennial wildflower with large, silvery-green fuzzy leaves and bright yellow daisy-like flowers. It blooms from May to July and grows in a compact mound 1-2 feet tall and wide, preferring full sun and low water conditions.
In an HOA neighborhood
Woolly Mule-Ears is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Large fuzzy leaves may appear informal to some HOAs
- Can look somewhat unkempt after blooming
- Not as tidy as common ornamental landscape plants
Wildlife value
The large yellow flowers attract various native bee species and butterflies, making it valuable for pollinator gardens. Seeds may also attract birds later in the season.
Common questions
- How much sun does Woolly Mule-Ears need?
- Woolly Mule-Ears grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Woolly Mule-Ears bloom?
- Woolly Mule-Ears blooms in May, June, and July.
- Where is Woolly Mule-Ears native?
- Woolly Mule-Ears (Wyethia mollis) is native to CA, NV, OR, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- Is Woolly Mule-Ears toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Woolly Mule-Ears as toxic to livestock.
- What pollinators does Woolly Mule-Ears attract?
- Woolly Mule-Ears draws bees and butterflies.
- Is Woolly Mule-Ears HOA-friendly?
- Woolly Mule-Ears is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
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 Mule-Ears? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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