Pacific Starflower
Lysimachia latifolia
Care
part shade
high
Friendly
Prized
Moist woodlands and riparian areas of the Sierra Nevada foothills and mountains from Fresno County to Modoc County, 2000-6000 ft elevation, extending to Oregon.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your Pacific Starflower in a spot with partial shade, ideally in or near moist soil that mimics its natural habitat in wet places and forest understories. The Bay Area's winter and early spring are your best planting windows. Space plants to allow for their mature spread, though exact spacing isn't specified in available data. This native prefers the conditions it evolved in, so prioritize moisture retention over well-draining soil.
After Planting
Water consistently and generously during your first growing season - this plant needs high water and won't tolerate drought once established. In the Bay Area's dry summers, plan on supplemental watering even after year one; don't assume winter rains are enough. The biggest mistake is underwatering: treat this as a moisture-loving plant, not a drought-tolerant native. Specific pruning needs aren't documented, so let the plant establish its natural form in year one while you focus on keeping the soil consistently moist.
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Wildlife Supported
Insects
Early season nectar source for emerging hover flies