Bloom of Narrowleafed Mule’s Ear (Wyethia angustifolia). One of 100+ species of Pacific Northwest native plants available at Sparrowhawk Native Plants, Native Plant Nursery in Portland, Oregon.
Bloom of Narrowleafed Mule’s Ear (Wyethia angustifolia) growing with Western Red Columbine. One of 100+ species of Pacific Northwest native plants available at Sparrowhawk Native Plants, Native Plant Nursery in Portland, Oregon.
Close-up of Narrowleafed Mule’s Ear (Wyethia angustifolia). One of 100+ species of Pacific Northwest native plants available at Sparrowhawk Native Plants, Native Plant Nursery in Portland, Oregon.
Long leaf of Narrowleafed Mule’s Ear (Wyethia angustifolia). One of 100+ species of Pacific Northwest native plants available at Sparrowhawk Native Plants, Native Plant Nursery in Portland, Oregon.

Narrowleafed Mule's Ear

Wyethia angustifolia

Narrow-leafed wyethia, also known as narrowleaf mule's ear, has lanceolate leaves that can grow up to 2 feet long. It is an interesting alternative to more common asters with its showy yellow flowers, lush leaves, and relatively low stature. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils and adds lovely color to meadowscapes or open woodland gardens. This perennial dies back completely in the winter and can be slow-growing. (Oregon Flora Project)

  • Plant type/canopy layer: deciduous perennial herbaceous plant/ground layer 
  • Size at maturity: 1-3' high, 1-3' wide
  • Light requirements: full sun
  • Moisture requirements: moist to dry, well-drained soil
  • Bloom time: May to July
  • Growth rate/ease: moderate to slow growth rate, easy to grow
  • Wildlife support: adult butterfly nectar source, bees and other insect pollinators, caterpillar host plant for larval food source (Oregon Flora Project)
  • Native habitat/range: colonies of narrow-leaved mule’s ears settle often in meadows and moist hillsides, but are also present in dry, open slopes at low to mid elevations. This species can be found from southern Washington and the Columbia River Gorge through the Willamette Valley and Central California. Portland Plant List - no.  
  • Special features & uses: pollinator gardens and wildflower meadows

Gardening with Narrowleafed Mule’s Ear: Wyethia angustifolia is an attractive drought tolerant flower that can be used easily in almost any sunny native garden. It thrives in sandy to loamy, well-drained soils and full sun.


Photo credits: Sevenoaks Native Nursery


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