Mountain Tansymustard: A Native Western Wildflower Worth Knowing
If you’re drawn to native plants that tell the story of America’s western landscapes, mountain tansymustard (Descurainia incana procera) might just capture your gardening heart. This unassuming native wildflower belongs to the mustard family and brings a touch of authentic western character to naturalized gardens and native plant collections.
What Is Mountain Tansymustard?
Mountain tansymustard is a native North American forb—essentially a non-woody flowering plant that completes its life cycle over two years. As a biennial, it spends its first year developing its root system and foliage, then flowers and sets seed in its second year before completing its natural cycle.
This native beauty calls the western United States home, naturally occurring across Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. It’s perfectly adapted to the challenging conditions of these mountainous and high-elevation regions.
Why Consider Mountain Tansymustard for Your Garden?
As a native species, mountain tansymustard offers several compelling reasons for inclusion in the right garden setting:
- Authentic regional character: Perfect for gardeners wanting to showcase plants that naturally belong in western landscapes
- Low-maintenance nature: Once established, native plants typically require less water and care than non-native alternatives
- Wildlife connections: Native plants support local ecosystems in ways that non-natives simply can’t match
- Adaptability: Evolved to thrive in challenging western growing conditions
Where Does Mountain Tansymustard Fit in Your Landscape?
Mountain tansymustard works best in naturalized settings rather than formal garden beds. Consider it for:
- Native plant gardens and prairie restorations
- Wildlife habitat areas
- Naturalized meadow settings
- Educational or demonstration gardens featuring regional flora
Growing Mountain Tansymustard Successfully
While specific cultivation information for mountain tansymustard is limited in gardening literature, we can draw from its natural habitat preferences and biennial nature to guide our growing approach.
What This Plant Likely Prefers
Based on its native range in western mountain regions, mountain tansymustard probably thrives in:
- Well-draining soils (likely sandy or rocky)
- Full sun to partial sun conditions
- Cooler temperatures typical of higher elevations
- Lower humidity environments
The Biennial Timeline
Understanding the biennial nature is key to success:
- Year 1: Focus on establishing strong roots and foliage
- Year 2: Flowering, seed production, and natural completion of life cycle
- Ongoing: Allow self-seeding for continuous populations
Important Considerations
Before adding mountain tansymustard to your garden, keep these points in mind:
- Limited availability: This specific subspecies may be challenging to find at typical nurseries
- Specialized needs: May require specific conditions that differ from typical garden settings
- Research locally: Check with native plant societies or extension services in your area for region-specific growing advice
- Responsible sourcing: If you locate seeds or plants, ensure they come from reputable native plant sources
The Bottom Line
Mountain tansymustard represents the authentic character of western American landscapes. While it may not be the easiest native plant to cultivate or find, it offers dedicated native plant gardeners a chance to grow something truly representative of their region’s natural heritage.
If you’re passionate about native plants and have experience with challenging species, mountain tansymustard could be a rewarding addition to a naturalized garden setting. Just remember that patience and research will be your best gardening tools with this distinctive western native.
