Whitehead Mule-ears
Wyethia helenioides
Care
full sun, part shade
low
2–2ft tall
Mar-May
Resistant
Friendly
Prized
Meadows and moist areas of the Sierra Nevada and adjacent mountains, 4000-8000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant Whitehead Mule-ears in full sun with well-draining soil in fall or early spring. Space plants to allow for their 2-foot mature height and width. This wildflower thrives in the sunny clearings of oak woodlands typical to coastal California, so choose a spot that mimics those conditions - bright, open, and dry.
After Planting
Water weekly during your first summer to establish the plant, then transition to low water once established, relying mainly on natural rainfall. Expect spring blooms from March through May, after which the plant requires minimal intervention. The biggest mistake Bay Area gardeners make is overwatering; this native prefers dry conditions and will struggle in consistently moist soil, so err on the side of drought once it's through its first year.
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Endangered & Threatened Species Supported
California Species of Special Concern
Wildlife Supported
Insects
Larval host plant; caterpillars feed on plant foliage during spring emergence
Larval host plant; caterpillars feed on foliage in spring through early summer
Forages on flowers for nectar during spring bloom period
Host plant for larval development; caterpillars feed on foliage in spring months