Platystemon californicus (Creamcups)

Platystemon californicus (Creamcups) is a charming annual wildflower boasting small, cup-shaped, fragrant flowers, which may be white or golden or white with showy gold tips. The center of the flower is packed with thick, flattened stamens. Blooming profusely from early to late spring, Creamcups are one of the earlier annuals to bloom and will continue flowering until the weather warms up. They are borne singly on slender stems above the basal foliage of short, lance-shaped leaves. One plant can produce 20 or more flower stems. Flower buds, stems, and leaves are covered with white hairs. The blossoms attract many pollinators, especially butterflies. They are followed by a capsule with several one-seeded sections that break apart. Native to the southwestern United States and Baja California, Creamcups prefer open fields with sandy soils. They are found at elevations under 6,000 feet from the desert to the coast. Easy to grow, Creamcups are popular as ornamental plants for landscaping and revegetation of recently burned areas. Spectacular when massed and combined with other wildflowers.

• Grows up to 6-12 in. tall (15-30 cm) and 6 in. wide (15 cm). This spring wildflower reseeds readily and can form dense colonies.
• Thrives in full sun, in sandy, gravelly, well-drained soils. Drought tolerant. Give occasional water during dry periods.
• A wonderful addition to the garden, this enthusiastic bloomer is well suited to beds and borders, cottage gardens, rock gardens, or prairies and meadows.
• No serious pest or disease issues.
• Propagated by seed in spring.
• Native to Oregon, California, Arizona, Utah, and Baja California.