Spotted Hideseed
Eucrypta chrysanthemifolia var. chrysanthemifolia
Care
full sun
very low
2–3ft tall
Mar-May
Friendly
Prized
Coastal sage scrub and grassland of coastal California from the San Francisco Bay Area to San Diego County, below 2000 ft elevation
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Spotted Hideseed in full sun during spring, ideally March through May when it naturally blooms. This annual herb thrives in the lean, well-draining soils typical of chaparral and coastal sage scrub habitats, so avoid amending with compost or fertilizer - poor soil is actually what this plant prefers. Space plants about 12-18 inches apart to accommodate mature height of 2-3 feet.
After Planting
Water very sparingly once established; this plant evolved in desert and coastal scrub environments with minimal summer moisture, so overwatering is the #1 killer. After the spring bloom fades and seed capsules develop, let the plant dry out considerably between waterings. As an annual, Spotted Hideseed will naturally decline as temperatures warm through summer - simply remove it when it finishes rather than expecting year-round presence.
Wildlife Supported
Insects
native bees visit during bloom period for pollen and nectar resources
early season foraging on annual wildflowers
spring pollen source during early blooming period
early season pollen feeder during plant flowering period
adult flies forage on flowering plants during early spring bloom