Star lily
Toxicoscordion fremontii
Care
full sun
very low
2–2ft tall
Mar-May
Resistant
Friendly
Grasslands and oak woodlands of the foothills and interior valleys from the Sierra Nevada to the south coast ranges, below 3500 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your star lily in full sun where it will get the most direct light possible. This native wildflower thrives in very low water conditions, so choose a spot with excellent drainage - rocky or sandy soil is ideal, mimicking the grassy slopes and rocky outcrops where it naturally grows. Space bulbs about 6 inches apart to give them room to establish.
After Planting
Star lilies need very little water once established; think of them as a set-it-and-forget-it plant that prefers dry conditions. The main mistake people make is overwatering - this plant wants neglect, not attention. Expect delicate star-shaped flowers from March to May in spring, and note that the foliage will naturally die back after flowering, which is completely normal. Deer will leave it alone, so you don't need to protect it from wildlife.
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Caterpillar host plant for multiple generations Mar-Sep
Larval food plant for California populations, primary host Apr-Aug
Adult feeding on foliage and flowers May-Jul
Caterpillar host plant, multiple broods May-Oct
Larval host plant for noctuid moth
Foraging on plant foliage and flowers for aphids and small insects
Foraging on plant and associated insects during cool months