With huge, lemon-yellow blooms that open in late afternoon and glow like lanterns, Ozark Sundrops bring charm and surprise to dry, sunny gardens. It grows 6–12 inches tall and spreads low, with dramatic seed pods shaped like winged lanterns.

Loves full sun and dry, well-drained soils—especially sandy or rocky ones—and resents wet feet. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant and thrives with minimal care.

Forms tidy, sprawling mounds that stay low and well-behaved, making it perfect for rock gardens, edges, or sunny slopes. Its blooms open in the evening and close by morning, inviting closer observation.

Native to the south-central U.S., especially the Ozark Plateau and southern Great Plains, in rocky glades and dry prairies.

Emerges in spring with slender, silvery-green leaves, followed by months of showy yellow flowers from late spring to summer. Unique, winged seed pods persist into fall, adding sculptural interest.

Evening blooms attract nocturnal pollinators like moths, while daytime visitors occasionally sneak a taste too. Its seeds feed birds, and the low growth offers cover for ground-dwelling insects.