Native Plants
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Bransford, W.D. and Dolphia
Leptosiphon androsaceus
Leptosiphon androsaceus Benth.
False Babystars
Polemoniaceae (Phlox Family)
Synonym(s): Linanthus androsaceus
USDA Symbol: LEAN19
USDA Native Status: L48 (N)
The variable annual is mostly erect with simple or few-branched stems from 2-18 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: AnnualHabit: Herb
Fruit Type: Capsule
Size Notes: Up to about 18 inches tall.
Bloom Information
Bloom Color: White , Pink , Yellow , PurpleBloom Time: Mar , Apr , May , Jun
Distribution
USA: CANative Distribution: Most of CA
Native Habitat: Grassy slopes; open oak woods; dry bluffs & hills; below 3500 ft.
Growing Conditions
Light Requirement: SunSoil 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.
Web Reference
Webref 30 - Calflora (2018) CalfloraWebref 36 - Jepson eFlora (2019) The Jepson Herbarium, University of California, Berkeley
Webref 23 - Southwest Environmental Information Network (2009) SEINet - Arizona Chapter
Additional resources
USDA: Find Leptosiphon androsaceus in USDA PlantsFNA: Find Leptosiphon androsaceus in the Flora of North America (if available)
Google: Search Google for Leptosiphon androsaceus
Metadata
Record Modified: 2023-02-15Research By: TWC Staff