Lasthenia californica (California Goldfields)

Native to the southwestern United States, Lasthenia californica (California Goldfields) is a low-growing annual with a profusion of very small, bright yellow daisy-like flowers in early to late spring. The flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. They are borne on slender and mostly upright, reddish stems clad with opposite, threadlike leaves. California Goldfields are variable in appearance as they adapt to their environment. The plants grow taller with more rainfall, whereas the leaves grow smaller and tougher with less rainfall. California Goldfields bloom at once in the spring to produce a striking carpet of gold on hillsides and in meadows that give the plant its common name. Excellent in masses, California Goldfields make a cheerful ground cover. They are a great addition to the wildflower garden too.

• Grows up to 6-16 in. tall (15-40 cm) and 6 in. wide (15 cm). Will self-seed profusely with enough moisture, and return year after year on undisturbed sites.
• Performs best in full sun to part shade in a variety of soil types ranging from sandy loams to silty clay loams. Drought tolerant.
• Welcomed addition to naturalized areas, cottage gardens, prairies and meadows.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Propagate by seed.
• Native to the southwestern United States in Arizona, California, New Mexico and Oregon.