California Yampah
Perideridia californica
Care
full sun
5–5ft tall
Friendly
Tubers eaten raw or cooked; traditional Indigenous food
Coastal scrub, grasslands, and wetlands from Sonoma County to Santa Barbara County, below 2000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant California yampah in full sun in moist soil, ideally in a location that mimics its natural habitat near streams or in areas that stay consistently damp. This perennial grows from cylindrical tubers and can reach up to 5 feet tall, so give it space to develop without crowding. The Calscape data doesn't specify ideal planting season or soil type beyond moisture preference, so check with local nurseries about timing for your Bay Area microclimate.
After Planting
California yampah is moderate in care difficulty, meaning it requires attention but isn't fussy once established. The most critical factor is maintaining moist soil - this plant naturally grows in wet areas, so don't let it dry out completely during the growing season. Beyond consistent moisture and full sun, the Calscape data doesn't detail pruning needs, dormancy patterns, or a specific weaning schedule, so monitor your plant's growth and adjust watering as it matures and establishes its root system.
Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Caterpillars feed on Apiaceae family plants including Perideridia; multiple generations Mar-Sep
Larvae utilize Apiaceae plants; single generation typically Jun-Aug in California
Early spring emergence Feb-Apr; larvae feed on various host plants including some Apiaceae
Caterpillars feed on Apiaceae hosts; univoltine populations emerge Apr-Jun
Mammals
Cache underground tubers and seeds as food stores; important winter nutrition