Mentzelia asperula, commonly known as Organ Mountain Blazingstar, is an annual herb native to the Southwestern United States to Mexico, specifically thriving in desert scrub, pinyon-juniper woodlands, and chaparral ecosystems. It is a slow-growing plant that typically reaches 1-3 feet (0.3-0.9 meters) in height and 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) in width. The Organ Mountain Blazingstar is characterized by its lanceolate leaves and stems covered with barbed hairs, which can adhere to clothing and fur. Its bright yellow flowers, which are showy, bloom in the summer and are a source of nectar for pollinators.

This plant is valued for its drought tolerance and unique appearance, making it suitable for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid regions. It is also used in wildflower gardens for its vibrant yellow blooms. Organ Mountain Blazingstar requires minimal maintenance, thriving in full sun and well-drained sandy or loamy soils with low water needs once established. While it is not commonly affected by diseases, its barbed hairs can make handling the plant challenging, and gardeners should use gloves when working with it. It is not known to be invasive and does not have aggressive roots, making it a safe choice for cultivation in suitable climates.CC BY-SA 4.0