Cutleaf Ironplant

(Xanthisma spinulosum)

Cutleaf Ironplant (Xanthisma spinulosum)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Xanthisma spinulosum, commonly known as Cutleaf Ironplant, is a perennial herb that is native to the prairies, grasslands, and desert scrub of the Central Southwestern United States and Canada, as well as Northwest Mexico. It typically grows to a height of 2-3 feet (0.6-0.9 meters) and a width of up to 0.3 feet (0.09 meters). The plant features deeply lobed, spiny leaves that give it a distinctive texture, and it produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers in the summer, which are moderately showy and attract pollinators.

Cutleaf Ironplant is valued for its drought tolerance and its ability to thrive in poor soils, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and naturalistic plantings in arid regions. It is also used in rock gardens and as a border plant due to its compact size and interesting foliage. In cultivation, it requires full sun exposure and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. While it is generally low-maintenance, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant is not known for aggressive roots or significant disease problems, making it a reliable choice for gardeners seeking a tough, drought-resistant species.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Shrub
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.75-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Native to prairies, grasslands, and desert scrub of the Central and Southwestern United States, as well as Northwest Mexico

Other Names

Common Names: Spiny Ironplant, Cut-Leaved Ironplant, Lacy Tansy-Aster, Spiny Goldenaster, Spiny Goldenweed, Cut-Leaf Ironplant, Lacy Tansyaster, Haplopappe Épineux

Scientific Names: , Xanthisma spinulosum, Machaeranthera pinnatifida, Haplopappus spinulosus, Machaeranthera australis, Xanthisma spinulosum var. incisifolium, Sideranthus spinulosus, Machaeranthera pinnatifida var. incisifolia, Xanthisma incisifolium, Machaeranthera incisifolia

GBIF Accepted Name: Xanthisma spinulosum (Pursh) D.R.Morgan & R.L.Hartm.