Dodecatheon amethystinum – Amethyst Shooting Star

A rare jewel of the Driftless region.

Dramatic clusters of rosy-pink, swept-back flowers nod from slender stalks in late spring, resembling tiny shooting stars. Native range is restricted to the limestone bluffs of the upper Midwest Driftless region. Goes dormant by midsummer after a stunning but brief spring display. Fragrant when in full bloom.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full Sun to Shade
• Height: 6-18 inches
• Bloom: May
• Soil: Average, Mesic to Rocky
• Spacing: 12 inches

Wildlife Value

Attracts bees, including the federally endangered Rusty Patched Bumble Bee.

Garden Notes

Goes dormant in summer. Interplant with late-season bloomers to fill the gap.

Dodecatheon amethystinum · Primulaceae (Primrose family)