How to Grow Broom Snakeweed
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Broom Snakeweed
Gutierrezia sarothrae
shrubBroom snakeweed is a low-growing, woody shrub native to arid and semi-arid regions of western North America. It produces small, bright yellow flowers and is known for its fine, branching foliage that resembles a broom. The plant is drought-tolerant and often considered a range weed, though it has historical medicinal uses.
When should you plant Broom Snakeweed in your zone?
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Example Broom Snakeweed timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Broom Snakeweed
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Broom Snakeweed
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Broom Snakeweed dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 4-9, particularly suited to arid and semi-arid climates of the Great Plains and Southwest
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Get my Broom Snakeweed timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
4-8 weeksTiny green shoots emerge with fine, delicate foliage characteristic of the species.
Keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Thin seedlings to desired spacing early. Very slow to establish.
Vegetative Growth
1-2 yearsPlant develops branching woody stems and increasingly fine, feathery foliage. Resembles a small, delicate broom.
Minimal watering after first season. No fertilizer needed. Tolerates poor soil. Prune lightly to maintain shape if desired.
Flowering
8-12 weeksDense clusters of small bright yellow flowers appear at branch tips, typically late summer to fall.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms if desired, though plant will self-seed. No supplemental feeding needed.
Seed Production & Maturity
Ongoing after year 2Flowers fade, followed by small dry seed heads. Plant becomes fully woody and established.
Allow some flowers to go to seed for natural regeneration or wildlife. Cut back old wood in late winter if needed for rejuvenation.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; insecticidal soap if populations are severe. Generally not a major issue.
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and
Natural control by predators usually sufficient. Neem oil or insecticidal soap for heavy infestations.
Uses
Traditional antimicrobial remedy
MedicinalNative American and traditional herbalists used broom snakeweed as a tea or decoction to treat various ailments, particularly respiratory and digestive issues. The plant contains compounds believed to have antimicrobial properties. [source]
Pollinators and seed food source
WildlifeThe bright yellow flowers attract bees and other pollinators in late summer when other food sources are scarce. The seeds provide forage for birds and small mammals on rangelands. [source]
Rangeland and erosion management
HouseholdWhile often considered a rangeland weed, broom snakeweed is actually drought-tolerant and can help stabilize disturbed soils and prevent erosion in arid regions when managed appropriately. [source]
Herbal tea preparation
CulinaryDried stems and leaves can be brewed into a mild herbal tea with a slightly bitter, herbal flavor. Often combined with other medicinal herbs in southwestern herbal traditions. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest aerial parts (stems and leaves) for medicinal use in late summer to early fall when flowering begins, just before seeds mature. Cut stems close to the base. Dry thoroughly for tea or herbal preparations. Harvest sustainably, taking only 1/3 of the plant to allow regeneration.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'snakeweed' comes from historical folklore claims that it could treat snakebites, though this use is not scientifically validated.
- 🌱 Broom snakeweed can survive in areas receiving as little as 8-12 inches of annual precipitation and is a dominant plant in many shortgrass prairie and desert ecosystems.
- 🌱 The plant accumulates high levels of minerals and was historically suspected of causing livestock poisoning, though current research suggests this is rare under normal grazing conditions.
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