Grindelia squarrosa
Yellow flower of Grindelia squarrosa
Upper leaf of Grindelia squarrosa
Distribution of native Grindelia squarrosa in the western U.S.
Traditional herbal remedy - dried leaves and flowers
Grindelia squarrossa found in a field
 Grindelia squarrosa is a small biennial or short lived perennial plant that is commonly known as curly-top gumweed or curly-cup gumweed. Grindelia squarrosas can reach a height of 90 cm (3ft) and is a member of the sunflower family (Asteraceae) which is the largest plant family in most temperate areas. This particular species was discovered by Lewis and Clark in the 1800’s where it had been used by many tribal Indians for several reasons.

Flowers, stems, and leaves
Grindelia squarrosa produces yellow flowers through long periods usually through the months of June to September. On average they contain about 25-40 rays that are about 7-15 mm long. The flower disc can get as big as 2 cm wide with many flowering heads growing in clusters. The flowers of Grindelia squarrosa are hermaphrodites, contain both the female and male organs, and are pollinated by insects. These particular flowers prefer the light and cannot grow in the shade and are considered to be ornamental flowers.

Grindelia squarrosa is identified by its sticky stems and leaves. Stems from this plant branch out in many directions from the base and contain leaves that are hairless and contain small hardened teeth. The leaves are usually oblong and grow to 35 mm long and 6-12 mm wide. As the plant continues to grow the leaves in the middle to upper region are mostly clasping.

Distribution and Climate
Grindelia squarrosa, or curly-cup gumweed, is usually found throughout the great plains of Montana on disturbed sites, such as waste grounds, and along roadsides in the dry soil.

Medicinal, edible, and other uses
Tribal Indians used Grindelia squarrosa for many reasons and purposes to relieve severe sickness or common everyday use. Here is a list of the many ways Grindelia squarrosa was and is still used in medicine.
  • colds
  • stomachaches
  • liver disorders
  • snow blindness
  • wash for saddle sores
  • tuberculosis
  • dizziness
  • asthma
  • bronchitis
  • rashes (poison ivy or eczema)








Grindelia squarrosa also contains sedative properties. Fluid extract is prepared by placing the fresh plant in simmering water for about 15 minutes. It is believed that is was used to desensitize the nerve endings in the bronchial tree and slow the heart rate, leading to easier breathing.

Grindelia squarrosa can also be used in many edible ways aside from being medicinal.
  • The sticky sap can be chewed as gum
  • A homeopathic remedy can be prepared from the leaves and flowering stem
  • The fresh or dried leaves can be used to make an aromatic, slightly bitter, but pleasing tea
  • Yellow and green dye can be obtained from the flowering heads and pods
Some interesting facts about this plant are that tribal Indians and other early settlers used the leafless stems as a broom. Also the flower of this plant were once ground and added to cigarettes.

Although Grindelia squarrosa appears to be a wonderful plant full of remedies, it can also be a hazard to those on the rangelands. Grindelia squarrosa was one of the first species to invade becoming a serious threat and weed of grazing lands. Gumweed has negative economic impacts on graze lands where if eaten, livestock can become gummed up with it.

Student PDF version.
Racheal Lanier, Fall 2007