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Wyeth Biscuitroot

Lomatium ambiguum

Last reviewed: June 2026

Wyeth Biscuitroot (Lomatium ambiguum)
Photo: (c) Henry Mulligan, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Henry Mulligan

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

6"–24" H × 4"–12" W

Bloom

Apr, May, Jun

Native to

ID, MT, OR, UT and 2 more states

Pollinators

bees, beetles, flies

Browse plants for this ecoregion

Lomatium ambiguum produces clusters of small yellow or white flowers on umbrella-like stems in spring. This compact perennial has finely divided, ferny foliage and thrives in dry, sunny conditions with minimal water once established. The plant goes dormant in summer, disappearing until the following spring.

In an HOA neighborhood

Wyeth Biscuitroot 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.

  • Completely disappears in summer leaving bare spots
  • Ferny foliage can appear weedy to some
  • Unknown to most HOA boards as landscaping plant

Wildlife value

The early spring blooms provide crucial nectar for native bees, beetles, and flies when few other flowers are available. This makes it particularly valuable for supporting pollinators during their most active period.

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.

Does Wyeth Biscuitroot fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.