Spearleaf Agoseris

(Agoseris retrorsa)

Spearleaf Agoseris (Agoseris retrorsa)

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Climate Requirements

Precipitation 17" - 51"
High Temp. 78°F - 90°F
Low Temp. 23°F - 36°F

Summary

Agoseris retrorsa, commonly known as spearleaf agoseris, is a perennial herb native to the open meadows, grasslands, and sagebrush steppe of western North America. It can grow up to half a meter tall and is characterized by its basal rosette of narrow, lance-shaped leaves with toothlike lobes. The leaves can be up to 30 centimeters long and are often covered with fine hairs. The inflorescences are wool-coated, bearing solitary flower heads on erect, leafless stems. Each flower head contains numerous golden yellow ray florets, which are typically in bloom from late spring to early summer. The fruit is an achene topped with a plumelike pappus, aiding in wind dispersal.

Spearleaf agoseris is appreciated for its bright yellow flowers that can enliven naturalistic plantings and wildflower meadows. It is a low-maintenance plant that is drought-tolerant once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping and restoration projects. In cultivation, it prefers full sun to light shade and well-drained soils. While it is not commonly used in formal garden settings, it can be an attractive addition to native plant gardens and pollinator-friendly landscapes. It is important to note that Agoseris retrorsa has a deep taproot, which allows it to survive in dry conditions but can make transplanting difficult.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.5-2 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open meadows, grasslands, and sagebrush steppe of western North America

Other Names

Common Names: Spear-leaved Mountain Dandelion, Spearleaf False Dandelion

Scientific Names: Agoseris retrorsa, Agoseris retrorsa, Macrorhynchus angustifolius, Macrorhynchus retrorsus, Microrhynchus angustifolius, Microrhynchus retrorsus, Troximon retrorsum

GBIF Accepted Name: Agoseris retrorsa