56 Wildflowers in Minnesota (Pictures and Identification)

Minnesota wildflowers bloom from March to September, depending on each species. Some are even grown in gardens as floral décor.

Many species of common wildflowers in Minnesota are also important to the ecosystem as they serve as food for local wildlife.

Here are some of the typical wildflowers of the state, their ideal growing regions, as well as their most common uses for wildlife or humans.

1. Common Milkweed

Found around the state including areas around Minneapolis, The Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) is among the species known to attract bees and butterflies to gardens.

Native to North America, Common Milkweed is a wildflower that attracts Minnesota wildlife.

Common Milkweed

While invasive outside of North America, this species can also show aggressive spreading behavior in the state.

Planting it in gardens is typically not recommended based on its quick spread based on rhizomes.

Herbicide use and frequent vegetation mowing along public roads are among the management techniques that limit the plant’s aggressive spread.

2. Bloodroot

Bloodroot

A species of the poppy family, Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) is one of the earliest flowers in the state.

This species has distinct white and yellow flowers which bloom in the spring. The wildflower is found across the state’s woodlands and further North into Canada.

Growing to a height of 4-5 inches, the herbaceous species is typically found in remote areas of woodlands with reduced human activity.

It can also grow along woodlands in moist terrains around water as well as in terrains that can be flooded.

3. Great Mullein

Great Mullein

A type of native plant, the Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is found all around the state and it always carries a risk of invading disturbed lands.

This plant has multiple small yellow flowers and it reaches a height of up to several feet.

In agriculture, its impact is limited as it dies with yearly tilling.

In gardens, it can spread out more but it never survives in shaded or partial shade growing areas.

A common host for insects, Great Mullein is used in traditional medicine but there’s no scientific evidence to support its various health benefit claims.

4. Common Yarrow

Common Yarrow

An erect growing pattern is specific to The Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), similar to Great Mullein.

This species also grows up to several feet, providing nutrition for local livestock.

Known for its clusters of small white flowers at the top of the stems, this species is also used by small birds which may line their nests with its stems rich in fiber.

A type of weed, this species can grow on prairies, on disturbed land, as well as on different other terrains such as around gardens.

Its hybrids are often seen in different flower colors such as red, pink, and orange.

5. Virginia Waterleaf

Virginia Waterleaf

This herbaceous species (Hydrophyllum virginianum) is also known for its white flowers.

It grows in Eastern US habitats and Northern states, including Minnesota.

The species favors moist soils next to water or flood plains.

Its blooms are seen early in the season. Virginia Waterleaf is a species that blooms in the spring.

Lowland and highland woodlands are among the typical places where this species can also be found in the state.

6. Wild Bergamot

Wild Bergamot

A multi-purpose role is tied to Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa). This is a species that is seen as an ideal flower for bees, but it is also used in traditional medicine.

Its colorful blooms also make Wild Bergamot a species that can be adapted to gardens.

While not a weed in Minnesota, Wild Bergamot can spread quickly by rhizomes.

This is a species often seen as an ideal type of wildflower to cultivate when you want to attract bees, wasps, and hummingbirds.

It can grow to a size of just over 3 feet in moist soil.

7. Bird’s-foot Trefoil

Bird’s-foot Trefoil

Bird’s-foot Trefoil (Lotus corniculatus) is a species with an invasive status in many of its regions. It can be found on round roads as well as on pastures.

It grows quickly, to a size of tens of inches and it spreads outcompeting local plants for nutrients.

Various native bees and insects feed on these flowers.

Butterflies and their caterpillars can be seen feeding on the species, among bumblebees and wasps.

Wood White Butterflies are a bright species often feeding on its flowers.

Abandoned fields and meadows are among the areas the species is most likely to grow, along roadsides.

8. Marsh Marigold

Marsh Marigold

Common in aquatic habitats, Marsh Marigolds (Caltha palustris) have a distinct golden-yellow bloom.

The species spread quickly and dominate the areas it grows in.

A wildflower rich both in pollen and nectar, Marsh Marigold is a species that attracts various types of wildlife.

Northern states such as Minnesota are known to be places where beetles feed on Marsh Marigold the most.

Hoverflies and bees are also seen frequently visiting the plant’s yellow flowers.

The spread of the wildflower is noted along sources of water. 200 to 300 seeds are produced by each flower.

9. White Snakeroot

White Snakeroot

White Snakeroot (Ageratina altissima) is one of the tallest types of toxic wildflowers in Minnesota. This is a species that reaches a height of 3-5 feet.

Its toxic profile is sometimes dangerous when ingested by cows, as it can be transmitted to humans through milk.

While toxic to livestock, White Snakeroot still attracts a high number of insects and butterflies.

Moths are often attracted by this species. The white and black Clymene Moth uses White Snakeroot as a host plant.

White Snakeroot is also seen in gardens in a hybrid cultivar.

10. Black-eyed Susan

Black-eyed Susan

A naturalized species in Northern and Western North America, Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta) is a species named after its dark central section.

Known for its contrasting yellow flowers, Black-eyed Susan is one of the most common wildflowers grown in containers.

When growing in nutrient-rich soils, Black-eyed Susan can reach a height of up to 40 inches.

It can also be grown in gardens where it attracts various species of butterflies.

Some of the butterflies Black-eyed Susan attracts are also black and yellow, such as The Silvery Checkerspot.

11. Wild Geranium

Wild Geranium

Wild Geranium (Geranium maculatum) is a common plant in the state with multiple health benefits.

Different types of cultivars are recognized alongside the species. Its cultivars are known to be used for different health benefits, such as being a natural astringent.

Wild Geranium comes with pink or purple wildflowers which first bloom in the spring.

Its leaves are green and partially resemble a parsley leaf shape.

The species grows densely over small areas it grows. Woodlands, wetlands, and other habitats high in moisture are ideal for the species.

12. Wood Anemone

Wood Anemone

White leaves arranged similarly to rosettes are characteristic of Wood Anemones (Anemonoides quinquefolia).

This species is one of the first blooming wildflowers in Minnesota in the spring.

Some of the oldest woodlands of the state are areas where this species grows. Looking for high moisture soils, Wood Anemone is among the species that grow in partial shade.

Deciduous woodlands and mixed woodlands are some of the areas the species grows.

It can also be used to determine the age of certain woodlands as Wood Anemone is mostly present in old woodlands.

13. Ground-Ivy

Also known as The Creeping Charlie, is a type of groundcover species introduced to North America.

Ground-Ivy

Ground-Ivy (Glechoma hederacea) has an introduced status in the state where it escaped cultivation as it become a considerable invasive species.

It can quickly choke out other local vegetation and wildflowers.

Ground-Ivy is further known for its colorful blue or violet flowers.

A common sight across the wasteland, this is also a species that can be eaten. It has been used in salads before.

Liver health concerns are often tied to possible benefits when it comes to drinking Ground-Ivy tea.

14. White Campion

White Campion

Common across the state, White Campion (Silene latifolia) has very different growing patterns.

It can be a species that grows each year in the spring, surviving only a few months. This is also a biennial species and the exact growing pattern of the wildflower is unknown.

White flowers with large petals are specific to the species. These flowers are seen from May to October each year or every second year.

15. Hoary Vervain

Hoary Vervain

Hoary Vervains (Verbena stricta) are a type of spiky wildflower that grows on grassy and vegetation-rich terrains.

This is a species that has long spikes covered in typically small flowers. Its purple or lavender flowers typically measure around 1 inch each.

Hoary Vervain is also a species known for its long leaves, which measure at least twice as much as the flowers.

The species is an important plant to the ecosystem with various insects and caterpillars feeding on it. Small birds also eat their seeds as they are released by the flower.

16. Blue Vervain

Blue Vervain

Both Hoary Vervain and Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata) are important food sources for the butterflies of Minnesota.

Among them, The Common Buckeye Butterflies are known to feed on both species.

Blue Vervain grows at higher altitudes which also means it blooms later in the season. The purple or pink flowers of the species are only seen in the second half of the summer.

Growing up to a size of 5 feet, Blue Vervain also has longer leaves compared to Hoary Vervain. Its leaves can grow to a length of up to 6 inches compared to the 2-3 inch length of Hoary Vervain leaves.

17. Largeflower Bellwort

Largeflower Bellwort

A small wildflower in moist soils, Largeflower Bellwort (Uvularia grandiflora) is another type of common Minnesota wildflower that only blooms in the second half of the summer.

This is a species that has a short height, growing up to a few inches. Its flowers are dark yellow, with a specific bell shape.

Found around different types of woodlands, Largeflower Bellwort is a species that feeds many insects and bugs with its rich pollen.

Some of the late summer species that feed on the pollen produced by its yellow flowers include mason bees and waps.

18. Swamp Milkweed

Swamp Milkweed

As Common Milkweed, Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is also an important wildflower in the ecosystem of the state.

It provides a nutritional source for some of the most common species of North America, such as Monarch Butterflies.

There are few other species interested in this type of wildflower given its higher latex content.

For example, other insects and mammals are known to avoid the species.

Some cultivars are seen around the state. All Swamp Milkweed cultivars are used for butterflies in gardens as they can spread out quickly.

Damp soils in full sun are ideal places for the species.

19. Butterfly Milkweed

Butterfly Milkweed

Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a type of wildflower that attract butterflies, specific to Northern states and Minnesota.

Also known as Canada Root, this species most has red flowers.

Some cultivars of Butterfly Milkweed are yellow while others are orange. Rarely seen without its red flowers, Butterfly Milkweed is a species that’s toxic to humans.

Multiple toxins in this plant show its impact on humans.

However, other species feed on it. Apart from butterflies, some local bees may also feed on their pollen.

20. Tansy

Tansy

Large yellow circular flowers are specific to Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare). This species is mostly associated with its high toxicity and ability to repel insects.

The plant is so toxic that flies stay away from it. Tansy has been one of the first meat preservation plants in North America.

Also known as Golden Buttons, this erect type of wildflower has long leaves.

A length of up to 6 inches is specific to the wildflower.

The plant might be cultivated for its medicinal uses even today. However, it also has a long history in the culture of Native Americans.

21. Meadow Anemone

Meadow Anemone

Meadow Anemones (Anemonastrum canadense) are irritating plants native to North America.

This species can cause mild skin irritation and may not be suitable in gardens. Still, it features large white flowers which makes it one of the stand-out species along woodlands.

Moist habitats are preferred by the species.

Meadow Anemone are toxic when eaten. They may also have beneficial roles as they are believed to have astringent action.

The plant can grow to a maximum height of just over 30 inches.

22. Creeping Bellflower

Creeping Bellflower

Named after the shape of its flowers, Creeping Bellflowers (Campanula rapunculoides) have purple flowers.

This species also grows to a maximum height of around 30 inches, similar to Meadow Anemone.

Creeping Bellflower is also a species that can multiply itself rapidly as it hosts thousands of seeds.

Unlike Meadow Anemone, Creeping Bellflower can also grow in drier areas. It can grow at high elevations in pine woodlands as well as on dry prairies.

As an invasive species, this wildflower requires a lot of effort to eliminate due to its deep roots.

23. False Sunflower

False Sunflower

False Sunflower (Heliopsis helianthoides) is a smaller type of wildflower compared to actual sunflower. Its yellow flowers with a dark central area inspire the name of the species.

This elongated wildflower may reach a tall size of up to 50 or more inches.

It also grows well in gardens where it can be cultivated in moist nutritious soils. Various other colors of False Sunflower can also be considered in gardening.

The cultivars of this species can be red or orange, suitable as decoration behind other flowers in the garden given their tall size.

24. Dutchman’s Breeches

Dutchman’s Breeches

Native to the Eastern parts of North America, Dutchman’s Breeches (Dicentra cucullaria) are small white wildflowers found in woodlands.

This species grows in full sun as well as in partial shade.

It prefers mixed woodlands with its moist soils even if it can be found in different cultivars, also suitable for gardens.

Pink Punk Dutchman’s Breeches is one of the cultivars of the species common in gardens. While it has the same size, this cultivar has white flowers that turn pink as they grow.

Both the wildflower and its cultivars bloom in early spring.

25. Common Dandelion

Common Dandelion

Common Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) is one of the most widespread invasive species in the state.

This is a type of yellow wildflower that multiplies itself rapidly as clones. It can invade fields and grow in full sun.

Many types of bees visit its flowers.

Common Dandelion has also been adapted to commercial use over time. It can be used to make drinks with an energy-boosting effect.

The stems of Common Dandelion can be added to dishes while its yellow parts may be used to be alcoholic drinks.

26. Hoary Alyssum

Hoary Alyssum

Bumblebees are among the frequent pollinators of Hoary Alysum (Berteroa incana). This type of invasive species is known for its toxic profile.

As with many Minnesota wildflowers, Hoary Alyssum is only toxic to some species, particularly horses.

Its white flowers with small petals make the species one of the most common sights in gardens where white small wildflowers are needed.

Most importantly, this species can establish itself on disturbed land as well as on different types of crops, specifically forage crops.

As a type of weed, it requires early management techniques as it can spread out through farming.

27. Purple Crownvetch

Purple Crownvetch

Purple Crownvetch (Securigera varia) has a debatable role in the ecosystem. Up until recently, it was considered an entirely detrimental species.

This type of wildflower is the host to various species of moths but it has a detrimental role in horses.

It can even paralyze horses that eat in large amounts. The plant does not affect cows which can eat it in any amount.

No fertilization is needed for the plant which tends to grow as an invasive species that’s almost impossible to remove.

Its pink flowers may attract pollinators but the high multiplication rate of the species may also kill its nearby plants.

28. Creeping Thistle

Creeping Thistle

Creeping Thistle (Cirsium arvense) is an introduced species with small pink flowers. Various cultivars of the species may come in other colors as well.

The invasive Creeping Thistle is a common food source for wildlife of the state such as bees. Still, some data suggests that most of the bees that pollinate it are not native bees of the state.

A type of noxious weed, the Creeping Thistle is a species that can invade crops and gardens.

While chemical control isn’t always possible, Creeping Thistle can be managed with bugs.

Larinus planus weevils are used as a biological control agent against Creeping Thistle.

29. Common Blue Violet

Common Blue Violet

An important food to local wildlife, The Common Blue Violet (Viola sororia) is a species with blue flowers.

Various types of Fritillary Butterfly caterpillars feed on the species. It is also eaten by rabbits and deer.

Mining bees also pollinate the species.

A type of noxious weed, Common Blue Violet grows in areas with vegetation and it also invades lawns and gardens.

While its weedy status is still debated, The Common Blue Violet needs to be pulled out of lawns before spreading its seeds.

30. Orange Hawkweed

Orange Hawkweed

Orange Hawkweed (Pilosella aurantiaca) can be invasive in some areas of Minnesota, particularly in the Northern part of the state.

The species grows to a height of just over 30 inches and it can be identified by its yellow or orange-yellow flowers.

Cultivars of the species may be found in different other colors such as rust-red or rust-orange.

Orange Hawkweed is an important source of pollen for bees and butterflies.

Its orange flowers are used in gardens where they attract bees.

The highly invasive status of the wildflower outside of the state and in other countries makes it a prohibited species in many cases, as seen in Australia.

31. Large-leaved Aster

Large-leaved Aster

Large-leaved Asters (Eurybia macrophylla) are common in Northern states as well as along The Great Lakes.

This is one of the asters in Minnesota that change colors as they grow. Initially white or cream-colored, Large-leaved Asters start to become purple to blue as they bloom.

A common food for local pollinators, this type of aster is endangered in some parts of the country but shows stable numbers in Minnesota.

One of the reasons for its reduced numbers outside of the state is that the asters of this species are often cooked and eaten.

32. Red Clover

Red Clover

3 leaflets are specific to Red Clovers (Trifolium pratense). Its 3 leaves are small and are found right under the pink flowers.

This species has been introduced to North America where it is widely adopted for its nitrogen soil fixation benefits.

As a fodder species animals feed on, Red Clover is also used similarly to manure, to enrich and prepare the soil for various crops.

The pink of red flowers of the species is also edible. They can be eaten by humans when cooked and added to various foods.

Red Clover flour is also made by processing its dry red or pink flowers.

33. Dame’s Rocket

Dame’s Rocket

Pink or purple flowers with 4 opposing petals are specific to Dame’s Rocket (Hesperis matronalis).

This is a species native to Europe and to regions of Asia. It has been introduced as a cultivar in North America.

Its spread to Minnesota is believed to be accidental.

The species shows an invasive growth pattern, outcompeting local plants for nutrients.

Its fast spread and impact on the ecosystem are so wide that the species is even banned in some US states. It may not be an ideal species for gardens in Minnesota as a result.

34. Purple Prairie Clover

Purple Prairie Clover

Long spikes with purple flowers are specific to The Purple Prairies Clover (Dalea purpurea). As its name suggests, this is a species found on various types of prairies throughout the state.

Purple flowers bloom in the spring, a time when they also attract multiple bees and insects.

The species is known to live in harsh conditions and it can be one of the first flowers to spread itself through prairies impacted by the fire.

Purple Prairie Clover can also be used to re-vegetate an area that has been highly impacted either by fire or by industrialization, which is seen around old mines.

35. Downy Yellow Violet

Downy Yellow Violet

Small yellow flowers with 4-5 petals are specific to The Downy Yellow Violet (Viola pubescens). This is a species that grows to a few inches, mostly seen around moist areas such as in woodlands.

Sometimes seen on meadows, Downy Yellow Violets also grow in full sun but may be smaller here.

While its golden-yellow flowers bloom in the spring, they live for a few months, typically throughout the summer.

36. Rue Anemone

Rue Anemone

Each stem of Rue Anemone (Thalictrum thalictroides) grows at least one flower. Up to 5 white or pink flowers grow on the individual stems of the species.

The fruits of the species measure about ¼ inches and are released in the spring.

Rue Anemone blooms in early spring and it tends to release its seeds in late spring.

Both its white and pink flowers show a similar habit of releasing the seeds just before the first weeks of the summer.

37. Spotted Joe-Pye Weed

Spotted Joe-Pye Weed

Spotted Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium maculatum) is among the few species of the state with colorful stems, often in the same color as the flowers.

This is a species that has a deep purple stem color. In some cases, its stems can have a standard green color as well.

Pink-rose to purple flowers is seen on the tip of these stems. Spotted Joey-Pye Weed is a species that grows to a height between 3 and 6 feet.

Various species of moths and butterfly caterpillars feed on this weed.

Some of its ideal habitats include wetlands and marshes.

38. Common Toadflax

Common Toadflax

The Common Toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) is among the yellow wildflowers of the state that attract bees and wasps.

While large bright flowers are specific to the species, this is a type of wildflower that is also invasive.

Grasslands and dry areas in full sun and good moisture are ideal for the species.

With a long history tied to human use, Common Toadflax has been considered for various types of traditional medical treatments.

39. Nodding Trillium

Nodding Trillium

This type of flowering plant (Trillium cernuum) is also known for making red fruit.

It can be found across the state at different elevations. It likes to live in moist soils next to various types of streams, ponds, and canals.

Nodding Trillium is also a species that grows well around woodlands and in deciduous woodlands.

Its particularities in Minnesota include the capacity to grow at higher altitudes. This wildflower can even be found around coniferous woodlands.

At least 3 different Nodding Trillium subspecies are found around the state.

40. Common Harebell

Common Harebell

Common Harebell (Campanula rotundifolia) blooms from summer to fall. This is one of the most adaptive species in the state.

It lives on mountains, between rocks, sandy soils, and moist land.

Found in almost all regions of the state, Common Harebell is among the wildflowers capable of self-pollination. Bees also pollinate it throughout the summer.

The plant can be grown at home. Springtime marks a good planting period as well as the ideal time to separate the plant.

It then blooms blue, purple, or pink flowers through the summer and into the fall.

41. Golden Alexanders

Golden Alexanders

Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea) are a species of yellow wildflowers. This species has clusters of small flowers which are in bloom up until June.

A species found in Minnesota, this wildflower has a widespread North American distribution.

Wet terrains and abandoned fields are among the habitats where this type of wildflower thrives.

Local wildlife frequently visits its yellow flowers. Various types of large caterpillars such as those of the Swallowtail butterfly are known to fee don it.

This species is also known to be the main flower of The Golden Alexander Miner Bee.

The bee has black and yellow coloring, similar to the small flowers of Golden Alexanders.

42. New England Aster

New England Aster

Up to 100 purple or violet ray flowers arranged in a dark yellow center is specific to the New England Aster flower (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae).

This type of wildflower has a widespread distribution in meadows and prairies.

It represents one of the species that attract wildlife such as bugs and insects.

Asters of this family attract the orange and black Monarch Butterfly. They also attract green and black bees such as Metallic Green Sweat Bees and Broad-handed Leafcutters.

The plant has also been studied for its potential health benefits. Treating skin conditions is one of the main areas of research tied to the plant.

43. Oxeye Daisy

Oxeye Daisy

A maximum height of just over 30 inches is specific to Oxeye Daisies (Leucanthemum vulgare).

Its flowers are circular with white and yellow parts.

The species may become invasive across its ideal open terrains such as fields and pastures.

Oxeye Daisy multiplies quickly by rhizomes.

Unlike other species, a large Oxeye Daisy has a few thousand more seeds compared to other species. Each flower can have more than 20.000 seeds.

44. Grey-headed Coneflower

Grey-headed Coneflower

Large yellow flowers are specific to this species (Ratibida pinnata). Dark grey central areas are spotted on its flowers, which, darken to brown or black over time.

The wildflower grows to several feet. Some of the tallest Grey-headed Coneflowers reach a maximum height of 5 feet.

Known for their anise-like fragrance, Grey-headed Coneflowers may be eaten by livestock in the state.

45. Stiff-leaved Goldenrod

Stiff-leaved Goldenrod

A wildflower that used to be popular in folk medicine, Stiff-leaved Goldenrod (Solidago rigida) is a type of goldenrod that stands out with its large leaves.

Its leaves may reach a length of up to 3 inches, which places them among the goldenrods with large leaves.

Large yellow flowers are then seen on the goldenrod wildflower. These flowers are in bloom from late summer into fall.

Stiff-leaved Goldenrods are mostly found on prairies.

46. Anise Hyssop

Anise Hyssop

Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum) is also known as The Lavender Hyssop due to its flowers which resemble lavender. It is also known as The Blue Giant Hyssop as its flowers are either blue or lavender.

An important wildflower for local wildlife, this plant is eaten by deer.

Carpenter bees are among the numerous bee species that visit the lavender flowers of Anise Hyssop.

47. Common Selfheal

Common Selfheal

Lavender flower colors are also specific to The Common Selfheal (Prunella vulgaris).

This is among the species known for its bright small violet flower that can also be eaten.

Both its small flowers and the rest of the plant can be eaten, preferably boiled.

Common Selfheal may end up in soups or stews.

This type of perennial is common throughout the state. It spreads rapidly along roads.

48. Daisy Fleabane

Daisy Fleabane

Daisy Fleabane (Erigeron strigosus) is a white and yellow aster. Hundreds of ray flowers are arranged around a central yellow section.

This species is mostly seen in the Eastern United States. It also grows in Minnesota along fields and prairies.

Daisy Fleabane is mostly seen in its white flower form here but on occasion, it may also arise in its lavender variant.

49. Purple Loosestrife

Purple Loosestrife

Purple, pink, or lavender colors are specific to Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria).

This is a type of spiked herbaceous perennial with flowers growing vertically on a spike-like top formation.

Bees and butterflies are among the wildlife that feeds on the species. Only bees with long tongues can feed on their flowers.

Purple Loosestrife is an invasive species. It can invade fields and marshes where they multiply to the point no other species can live in its presence.

50. Northern Starflower

Northern Starflower

The period between May and June is the time of the year Northern Starflower (Lysimachia borealis) is in bloom.

This is a species with multiple white flowers which grows in some areas of the state with a threatened status in other states.

Each flower has up to a couple of flowers that die by mid-summer while its leaves remain green through the summer.

51. Thimbleberry

Thimbleberry

This fruit-bearing type of wildflower (Rubus parviflorus) is a type of plant that resembles the raspberry.

It appears in moist areas around the state, including in shaded locations.

Most Thimbleberries are grown in gardens for their fruits. They can also be grown as decorative plants.

Some of the tallest Thimbleberries reach a height of up to 8 feet.

52. Spotted Knapweed

Spotted Knapweed

A type of perennial, Spotted Knapweed (Centaurea stoebe) has pink to purple flowers.

Native to Europe, Spotted Knapweed is one of the invasive plants of the state.

It grows in dense stands, outcompeting local species for nutrients. A wider distribution area along the state’s prairies and the prairies of Western Canada is specific to the species.

53. Common Evening-Primrose

Common Evening-Primrose

The Common Evening-Primrose (Oenothera biennis) is one of the most common host species of The Primrose Moth.

Small yellow flowers are specific to the plant. High-elevation habitats of up to thousands of feet are specific to the species.

With good management, Common Evening-Primose can be cultivated in gardens. The wildflower may become invasive if left to be grown without supervision.

54. Canada Goldenrod

Canada Goldenrod

One of the North American species that grows on disturbed land is Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis). This is a species used to revegetate areas impacted by the fire.

Known for its tiny golden yellow flowers, the wildflower grows to a size between 2 and 4 feet.

Some cultivars of the species can be considered for wild animals such as deer as well as for livestock.

55. Round-lobed Hepatica

Round-lobed Hepatica

This type of wildflower (Hepatica americana) comes in different colors. Blue, pink, or violet colors are specific to its flowers.

Its colorful flowers are in bloom from May-June in Minnesota.

Its flowers open in full sun, typically throughout the day. Round-lobed Hepatic flowers grow best in rocky habitats in full sun.

56. Broadleaf Arrowhead

Broadleaf Arrowhead

Growing above water, Broadleaf Arrowhead (Sagittaria latifolia) plants are found around the Northern and Eastern parts of the state.

These plants are in bloom late in the summer. Tiny white flowers are seen in bloom up to September.

Found around lakes and rivers, this type of wildflower often suffers from pest invasions. Spider mites feed on their leaves.