California Goldfields
(Lasthenia californica)
California Goldfields (Lasthenia californica)
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Larry Blakely
Public Domain
Image By:
Larry Blakely
Recorded By:
Copyright:
Public Domain
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Larry Blakely | License Type: Public Domain | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/publicdomain/ | Attribution: 1998 Larry Blakely | Publisher: Calphotos |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Lasthenia californica, commonly known as California Goldfields, is an annual or perennial herb native to vernal pools, grasslands, and open woodlands in California, with its range extending to parts of Oregon and Arizona. It typically remains under 40 centimeters in height, with a variable appearance influenced by subspecies and local climates. The leaves are hairy, linear to lanceolate, and range from one to seven centimeters in length. Coastal varieties may exhibit succulent characteristics in their foliage. The stems, also hairy, culminate in inflorescences composed of numerous yellow disc florets surrounded by a fringe of smaller ray florets. The phyllaries beneath the flower heads are similarly hairy. California Goldfields are renowned for their spectacular springtime displays, creating vast yellow carpets across hillsides and meadows.
This species is valued for its vibrant spring blooms and is often used in wildflower meadows, native plant gardens, and restoration projects. It is a low-maintenance plant, thriving in full sun to part shade and requiring minimal water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. California Goldfields prefer soils with medium drainage and can adapt to a variety of soil types. While generally disease-free, they can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. No cultivars are particularly noted, as the species is appreciated for its natural variation and wildflower charm. It is not known to be invasive when grown within its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
This species is valued for its vibrant spring blooms and is often used in wildflower meadows, native plant gardens, and restoration projects. It is a low-maintenance plant, thriving in full sun to part shade and requiring minimal water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping. California Goldfields prefer soils with medium drainage and can adapt to a variety of soil types. While generally disease-free, they can be susceptible to root rot in poorly drained soils. No cultivars are particularly noted, as the species is appreciated for its natural variation and wildflower charm. It is not known to be invasive when grown within its native range.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 2-3 feet
- Width: 2-3 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring
- Leaf Retention:
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Drought Tolerant, Groundcover, Low Maintenance, Showy Flowers
Natural Habitat
Vernal pools, grasslands, and open woodlands
Other Names
Common Names: Goldfields
Scientific Names: Lasthenia californica , Lasthenia california , Baeria palmeri var. palmeri , Burrielia chrysostoma var. chrysostoma
GBIF Accepted Name: Lasthenia californica DC. ex Lindl.