Annual Agoseris
Agoseris heterophylla
Care
full sun, part shade
low
well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil
0–1ft tall , 0–1ft wide
Apr-Jun
Deciduous
Resistant
Friendly
Roots eaten raw or cooked; young leaves used in salads
Grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands throughout California, from coastal regions to 6000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Annual Agoseris in full sun to part shade in well-drained, sandy, or gravelly soil - it thrives in drier conditions and won't tolerate soggy soil. This is an annual, so plant it in spring (around April when it naturally blooms) to establish before summer heat. Space plants about 6 inches apart to allow room for their low, spreading rosette form.
After Planting
Annual Agoseris needs minimal water once established; water deeply after planting, then reduce to low water once growth is underway. Since this is an annual herb, expect it to bloom April through June and naturally decline as temperatures rise - this is normal behavior, not a sign of trouble. The biggest mistake is overwatering; this plant evolved in dry western regions and actually prefers lean conditions, so err on the dry side.
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Early season pollen source for ground-nesting bee populations
Larval host plant for skipper caterpillars in spring generation
Spring larval host for grassland skipper populations
Early season pollen provisioning for ground-nesting bee broods
Spring foraging resource for early-emerging native bee
Pathogenic relationship affecting plant health and reproduction
Fungal disease that reduces plant vigor and seed set