Western woodland star
lithophragma affine
Also known as: ["Western woodland star","Western starflower"]
Overview
A delicate herbaceous perennial native to western North America, known for its small, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Genus: | Lithophragma |
| Botanical Name: | Lithophragma affine |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded rockery
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; mimics natural woodland conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; reduce watering in dormancy.
Soil
well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates and may go dormant in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions during dormancy.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only during active growth; stop before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings; division is preferred for mature plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide clumps.
- Apply rooting hormone if using cuttings.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves or stems at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during active growth (spring/summer), reducing frequency to once a month or less in fall/winter. Allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or root rot in cold, damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy; prolonged cold with wet soil leads to rot.
Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost; move indoors in freezing temperatures; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature dormancy; may struggle in prolonged high temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid dormant period.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer; avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLithophragma affine is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLithophragma affine is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLithophragma affine is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption, though it is not commonly used as a food source.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the native range of Lithophragma affine?
A: It is native to western North America, particularly in forested and woodland areas.
Q: Does Lithophragma affine attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How should Lithophragma affine be cared for?
A: It prefers partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate moisture; it may struggle in hot, dry conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Saxifragaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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