Creamcups

(Platystemon californicus)

Creamcups (Platystemon californicus)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Platystemon californicus, commonly known as Creamcups, is an annual herb native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, grasslands, deserts, and scrub areas in the Western United States and Northwest Mexico. It typically grows to a modest height of 5-30 centimeters with a slightly hairy to woolly texture. The plant is notable for its variable flowers, which usually feature six petals that can be solid white, solid yellow, or white with yellow tips or bases. The less common all-yellow petals may age to a reddish hue. Flowering occurs from February to June, with the blooms being moderately showy and attracting pollinators. The fruit is a segmented capsule containing shiny black seeds.

Creamcups are valued for their unique and variable flower coloration and their ability to thrive in a range of soil conditions. They are often used in wildflower meadows, native plant gardens, and as a part of restoration projects. While they prefer full sun, they can tolerate partial shade and are adaptable to different soil types, provided there is adequate drainage. They require moderate watering and are relatively low maintenance. However, they may not be suitable for formal garden settings due to their variable appearance and growth habit.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 1-1.5 feet
  • Width: 2-3 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Cream, White, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Winter
  • Leaf Retention:

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Hummingbird Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Open woodlands, grasslands, deserts, and scrub areas

Other Names

Common Names: Cream-Cups, Kaliforniavallmo, Cream Cups

Scientific Names: , Platystemon californicus, Platystemon californicus var. californicus, Platystemon californicus var. crinitus, Platystemon californicus var. nutans, Platystemon californicus var. ciliatus, Platystemon glyptolobus, Platystemon tortuosus, Platystemon arizonicus, Platystemon remotus

GBIF Accepted Name: Platystemon californicus Benth.