Balsamorhiza sagittata (Arrowleaf Balsamroot)

Balsamorhiza sagittata (Arrowleaf Balsamroot) is a long-lived perennial forming a basal rosette of arrowhead-shaped, silvery white to green leaves, 2-18 in. long (5-45 cm). From late spring to mid-summer, several flower stems, clad with smaller and linear to elliptic leaves, arise from the root crown. They bear solitary sunflower-like flowers, each blossom with 8-25 strap-shaped ray flowers, 1-2 in. long (2-5 cm), surrounding a center disk. The blossoms are particularly attractive to pollinators and the seeds are eaten by birds and rodents. Arrowleaf Balsamroot is also regarded as desired forage for cattle, sheep, elk, and pronghorn in spring and summer. Arrowleaf Balsamroot has a large and deep taproot, reaching 8 ft. in length (240 cm). Because of the deep taproot, it tolerates fire, grazing, trampling, and drought. Arrowleaf Balsamroot will spread under favorable conditions without becoming invasive. It is perfect for adding long-lasting summer color in naturalized areas and is commonly used in restoration projects. Arrowleaf Balsamroot was widely used as a medicinal plant by various native North American Indian tribes to treat a range of complaints, including body aches, blisters, sores, insect bites, bruises and wounds, fevers, whooping cough, and tuberculosis.

• Typically grows up to 1-2 ft. tall (30-60 cm).
• Performs best in full sun in silty to loamy, acidic to neutral, dry to moist,& well-drained soils. Tolerates partial shade. Drought tolerant once established.
• Low maintenance, this is an excellent choice for cottage gardens, bird or butterfly gardens, wildflower gardens, and restoration projects.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Plants are intolerant of root disturbance and strongly resent winter wet.
• Propagate by seed. Seeds require stratification for germination.
• Native to western North America from Alberta and British Columbia, east to the Dakotas, and south to Colorado and Arizona.