Meadowfoam (Limnanthes douglasii, London Edinburgh Philos. Mag. & J. Sci. 2: 70 (1833))

Family: Limnanthaceae

Author: R.Br.

Bibliography: London Edinburgh Philos. Mag. & J. Sci. 2: 70 (1833)

Year: 1833

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Limnanthes

Vegetable: False

Observations: Oregon to California

Description

Meadowfoam, scientifically known as Limnanthes douglasii, is a charming and distinctive plant species cherished for its delicate and enchanting blossoms. This captivating annual herb belongs to the Limnanthaceae family and is native to the regions stretching from Oregon to California.

Characterized by its noticeable white and yellow flowers, Meadowfoam typically blooms in the spring, painting fields and meadows with its striking, foam-like appearance, which is responsible for its common name. These flowers have a unique bell shape and are arranged in a manner that creates a lush, carpet-like effect, making them a delightful sight in their natural habitats.

The foliage of Meadowfoam is equally interesting, with finely divided, almost feathery leaves that complement the softness of the flowers. The plant thrives in moist, well-drained soils and often establishes itself in wetlands, meadows, and alongside streams, where it can receive ample sunlight.

Meadowfoam is not just a visual delight but also plays an important ecological role. It provides a vital early source of nectar for bees and other pollinators emerging in the spring. This, in turn, supports the broader ecosystem by contributing to the pollination of various other plant species in the area.

Historically, the plant has also garnered interest for its oil, which is extracted from its seeds. Meadowfoam seed oil has distinctive properties making it highly desirable in the cosmetics industry for its stability and moisturizing capabilities. This has led to a surge in its cultivation beyond its wild occurrence.

First scientifically described in 1833 in the London Edinburgh Philosophical Magazine and Journal of Science, Meadowfoam has intrigued botanists and naturalists alike, providing a rich subject for ecological and botanical studies. Its delicate beauty combined with its ecological significance ensures that Meadowfoam remains a beloved component of the botanical landscape from Oregon to California.

Common Names

Eng: douglas’ meadowfoam, meadow-foam, meadowfoam
Dan: sumpblomst
Swe: sumpört
Nld: geelwitte moerasbloem
Cym: melynwy
En: Meadowfoam, Douglas’ meadowfoam, Poached Egg, Poached Egg Plant, Meadow-foam
Cs: Voďankovec Douglasův
Da: Sumpblomst
Nl: Geelwitte moerasbloem
Fi: Hilppa
De: Douglas-Sumpfblume, Spiegelei-Blume
Is: Eggjablóm
Pl: Limnantes Douglasa
Sv: Sumpört
Cy: Melynwy

Synonyms

Distribution

• California (native)
• Oregon (native)
• Great Britain (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 26, 2022 by Chen Mary (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 29, 2021 by Samuel Rowe (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 30, 2021 by Robin Smith (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 15, 2020 by Colleen Flanigan (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 21, 2019 by Catherine Fleming (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 20, 2020 by Theresa Boonstra (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 13, 2021 by hanne stawarz (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 5, 2014 by EOL − Zoya Akulova (cc-by-nc)

Taken Jun 7, 2022 by AMANDA BRAND (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 29, 2021 by Samuel Rowe (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Jun 19, 2022 by Dave Flack (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 19, 2022 by Dave Flack (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Mar 28, 2016 by EOL − James Maughn (cc-by-nc)

Taken Apr 13, 2015 by EOL − Di (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Apr 17, 2015 by EOL − Di (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Nov 30, 2009 by EOL − Barry Breckling (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Oct 15, 1998 by EOL − Charles Webber (cc-by-nc-sa)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/5334527)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30052665-2)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Limnanthes douglasii R. Br.)

Specifications

Growth habit>: Forb/herb

Growth