Vinegar-weed
Trichostema lanceolatum
Care
full sun
3–3ft tall
Resistant
Friendly
Yes
Widespread throughout coastal and interior California from Humboldt County to San Diego County, below 3000 ft elevation, in chaparral and scrub
Care Guide
Planting
Plant vinegar-weed in full sun and well-draining soil - it thrives in the dry, nutrient-poor, sun-baked clay soil conditions of its native California habitat. This is an annual plant, so you can direct sow seeds in fall or early spring to align with the natural growing season. Space plants about 3 feet apart since they reach 3 feet tall at maturity.
After Planting
Vinegar-weed is adapted to dry conditions, so once established, it requires minimal supplemental water beyond normal rainfall - avoid overwatering, which is the most common mistake with this drought-adapted native. As an annual, the plant will complete its lifecycle in a single season and naturally decline; simply let it finish its bloom cycle and reseed if desired, or remove it at the end of the growing season.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
Listed under California ESA; range has contracted significantly
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Primary foraging during peak bloom period
Host plant for larval development
Host plant for larval food provisions
Larval host plant for butterfly development
Early season forager during flowering
Host plant for caterpillar development
Host plant for larval nourishment
Foraging during blooming period
+4 more species
Birds
Supplemental nectar source, especially during breeding season