Nuttall's Bigelowia
Bigelowia nuttallii
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
12 inches
Width
10 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Low
Humidity
Low
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
Southern United States
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Bigelowia nuttallii, commonly known as Nuttall's rayless goldenrod, is a perennial shrub with slender, upright stems and narrow, grass-like foliage. It produces clusters of small, yellow flower heads that lack ray florets, creating a delicate, airy appearance. This species is notable for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor, sandy soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic prairie gardens.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-drained soil in early spring.
- Water gently to settle soil and keep moist during germination.
- Place in full sun for optimal flowering.
- Apply a light layer of mulch to retain moisture.
- Fertilize lightly in early spring with a balanced slow-release fertilizer.
- Divide every 3-4 years in early spring to maintain health.
Pro Tip
Ensure excellent drainage to prevent root rot and promote healthy growth.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during prolonged dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead stems in late winter
- Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater, which can cause root rot ❌
- Use heavy, clay-rich soil without amendment ❌
- Neglect pruning, which can reduce flowering
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Nuttall's Bigelowia questions
What zones can Nuttall's Bigelowia grow in?
Nuttall's Bigelowia is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Nuttall's Bigelowia deer resistant?
Yes — Nuttall's Bigelowia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Nuttall's Bigelowia bloom?
Nuttall's Bigelowia typically blooms in early fall through late fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Nuttall's Bigelowia need full sun?
Nuttall's Bigelowia does best in full sun (6+ hours).
Is Nuttall's Bigelowia drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Nuttall's Bigelowia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
