Yellow-rattle
Rhinanthus minor
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Jun, Jul, Aug
Native to
ID
Pollinators
bees
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Yellow-rattle is a compact annual wildflower that produces cheerful yellow blooms from June through August. This low-growing plant reaches only 4-16 inches tall and is known for its ability to naturally suppress grass growth. It thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements once established.
In an HOA neighborhood
Yellow-rattle 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.
- Appears weedy and unkempt to most HOAs
- Annual nature means gaps in coverage
- Common name includes 'rattle' which sounds unappealing
Wildlife value
The bright yellow flowers attract bees and other beneficial pollinators during the summer months. As an annual, it provides seasonal nectar resources for native bee species.
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 Yellow-rattle fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.