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.
Common questions
- How much sun does Yellow-rattle need?
- Yellow-rattle grows best in full sun conditions.
- When does Yellow-rattle bloom?
- Yellow-rattle blooms in June, July, and August.
- Where is Yellow-rattle native?
- Yellow-rattle (Rhinanthus minor) is native to ID, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Yellow-rattle attract?
- Yellow-rattle draws bees.
- Is Yellow-rattle HOA-friendly?
- Yellow-rattle 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 Yellow-rattle? 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