Sticky Chinese Houses
Collinsia tinctoria
Care
part shade
very low
0–2ft tall
Friendly
Prized
Chaparral and scrub foothills from the Bay Area south to Kern County, 500-3000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Sticky Chinese Houses in partial shade to deep shade - it thrives in the dappled light of Bay Area woodlands rather than full sun. Space plants according to their mature height of under 2 feet, and ensure the soil drains well since this is a California native adapted to mountain forest conditions. Plant in fall or early spring to take advantage of the cooler, wetter season.
After Planting
This annual herb is extremely drought-tolerant once established, requiring very low water after the first growing season. Water moderately during establishment the first year, then back off significantly as the plant matures - overwatering is the main threat to success. Since it's an annual, expect it to complete its life cycle within a year and reseed naturally if conditions suit it.
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Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Listed under ESA; California populations endangered; multiple subspecies with varying conservation status
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Caterpillars feed on foliage in spring before pupation; critical early season host plant
Adults consumed by predators; larvae utilize as food source during spring development