California goldfields
lasthenia californica
Also known as: ["goldfields","California lasthenia"]
Overview
A small annual herb native to California, known for its clusters of bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Lasthenia |
| Botanical Name: | Lasthenia californica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open, sunny meadows or garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to remove dead or weak stems.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on deadheading and shaping.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance for partial shade in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade to prevent leaf burn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better structure.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain consistent moderate temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps. Seeds can also be sown in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip spent flowers just above a leaf node or lateral bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming and maintain plant vigor.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased stems; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Apply water directly to the root zone, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry slightly before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if prolonged below freezing.
Solution: Protect with a frost cloth in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in cool, damp weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat leads to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering due to water stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water deeply in the early morning.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLasthenia californica is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicLasthenia californica is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicLasthenia californica is not known to exhibit any toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lasthenia californica toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water California goldfields?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
Q: Does Lasthenia californica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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