Yellow Star-grass
Hypoxis hirsuta
Last reviewed: July 2026
Hypoxis hirsuta (Yellow Star-grass) is a native wildflower found across eastern and central North America, producing bright yellow star-shaped flowers from May through July in prairies and open woodlands.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Yellow Star-grass as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, AR, CO, CT and 34 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Yellow star-grass is a small native wildflower that produces bright yellow, star-shaped blooms from May through July. This compact perennial forms neat clumps of grass-like foliage and thrives in sunny locations with minimal water once established.
Growing Yellow Star-grass
Grow Yellow Star-grass in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 2 to 6 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Yellow Star-grass is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Very small size may appear insignificant in formal landscapes
- Grass-like foliage could be mistaken for weeds by some
Wildlife value
The cheerful yellow flowers attract native bees and beetles during the spring and summer months. Its compact size makes it useful for pollinators in smaller garden spaces.
Common questions
- When does Yellow Star-grass bloom?
- Hypoxis hirsuta blooms from May through July, producing small yellow star-shaped flowers that attract native bees and beetles.
- Where is Yellow Star-grass native?
- Yellow Star-grass is native to much of eastern and central North America, from Maine to Georgia and west to Colorado and New Mexico, growing in 41 states total.
- What pollinators visit Yellow Star-grass?
- Native bees and beetles are the primary pollinators of Hypoxis hirsuta, attracted to its bright yellow flowers during the summer blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Yellow Star-grass prefer?
- This native forb thrives in full sun to partial sun with low to moderate water needs, making it well-adapted to prairie and savanna conditions.
- Is Yellow Star-grass toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Yellow Star-grass as toxic to livestock.
- Is Yellow Star-grass HOA-friendly?
- Yellow Star-grass 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 Yellow Star-grass? 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