Share

Native Plant Database

Search for native plants by scientific name, common name or family. If you are not sure what you are looking for, try the Combination Search or our Recommended Species lists.

Search native plant database:
Name:    
Family:    

Leptosiphon androsaceus (False babystars)
Bransford, W.D. and Dolphia

Leptosiphon androsaceus Benth.

False babystars

Polemoniaceae (Phlox Family)

USDA Symbol: LEAN19

USDA Native Status: Native to U.S.

The variable annual is mostly erect with simple or few-branched stems from 2-12 in. in height. Leaves are scarce and palmately divided into linear segments. Rose, lilac, white or yellowish, phlox-like flowers occur in dense, terminal heads.

The many Leptosiphon species are mostly slender, perky little annuals, commonly forked, with opposite, palmately divided, prickly leaves, often clustered near the top, and colorful flowers that seem almost too big for the plant. Nearly 40 species occur in California alone, but there are few elsewhere.

 

Plant Characteristics

Duration: Annual
Habit: Herb
Flower:
Fruit:
Size Class: 0-1 ft.

Bloom Information

Bloom Color: White , Pink , Yellow , Purple
Bloom Time: Apr , May , Jun

Distribution

USA: CA
Native Distribution: Most of CA
Native Habitat: Grassy slopes; open oak woods; dry bluffs & hills; below 3500 ft.
USDA Native Status: L48(N)

Growing Conditions

Light Requirement: Sun
Soil Moisture: Dry
Soil Description: Dry soils.
Conditions Comments: Because this is such a variable species, it is especiallly important to match plant material with the appropriate site.

Recommended Species Lists

Find native plant species by state. Each list contains commercially available species suitable for gardens and planned landscapes. Once you have selected a collection, you can browse the collection or search within it using the combination search.

View Recommended Species page

Additional resources

USDA: Find Leptosiphon androsaceus in USDA Plants
FNA: Find Leptosiphon androsaceus in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Leptosiphon androsaceus

Metadata

Record Modified: 2007-01-01
Research By: TWC Staff

Go back