Family: Asparagaceae
Author: (Torr.) Coville
Bibliography: Le Roy Abrams, Ill. Fl. Pacific States 1: 398 (1923)
Year: 1923
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Bloomeria
Vegetable: False
Observations: SW. California to Mexico (Baja California)
Description
The Common goldenstar, scientifically known as Bloomeria crocea, is a captivating perennial herb that adds a splash of bright color to the landscapes of Southwest California and Mexico’s Baja California region. This remarkable plant is a member of the Asparagaceae family, a diverse group notable for its array of flowering species.
Bloomeria crocea thrives in the semi-arid climates of its native regions, where it often adorns dry, well-drained slopes and open spaces from late spring to summer. The plant’s dazzling, star-shaped blossoms make it easily identifiable. These flowers, which feature vivid yellow petals, emerge in loosely clustered inflorescences, creating a striking contrast against the backdrop of its typically sparse foliage.
The delicate beauty of the Common goldenstar is more than just a visual delight; it plays an essential role in the local ecosystem. Attractive to a variety of pollinators including bees and butterflies, Bloomeria crocea contributes to the sustenance and diversity of native pollinator populations.
The significance of the Common goldenstar was documented in 1923 by Le Roy Abrams in his illustrated flora of the Pacific states. His work not only cataloged the physical characteristics of Bloomeria crocea but also emphasized its botanical importance. The taxonomic authority for this species is credited to the botanists (Torr.) Coville, who contributed to the classification and understanding of this radiant member of the Asparagaceae family.
In the garden, Bloomeria crocea can be a cherished addition for gardeners seeking to replicate a piece of the Californian and Baja Californian landscapes. Its low-maintenance nature and resistance to drought make it an excellent choice for xeriscaping or naturalistic planting designs. Whether in the wild or in cultivation, the Common goldenstar continues to enchant with its golden blossoms and ecological value.
Common Names
Eng: common goldenstar
En: Common goldenstar, Common Golden star, Common Golden-stars, Golden Stars
De: Goldstern
Synonyms
- Allium croceum (Torr.)
Distribution
- California (native)
- Mexico Northwest (native)
Additional Images
Flower
Taken Nov 15, 2012 by EOL − Steven Thorsted (cc-by-nc)
Taken Feb 24, 1999 by EOL − Beatrice F. Howitt (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Mar 23, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Mar 23, 2013 by EOL − Gary A. Monroe (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 21, 2006 by EOL − Steve Matson (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Nov 8, 2015 by EOL − Cedric Lee (cc-by-nc-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2772231)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:531926-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Bloomeria crocea (Torr.) Coville)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
