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Description
Lithospermum Californicum, commonly known as California Stoneseed, is a native species of flowering plant in the borage family. It is found in coastal areas and mountains of California, Oregon, and Baja California. The plant grows up to three feet tall and produces small, cream-colored flowers in clusters. The seeds of Lithospermum Californicum are used by some Native American tribes for medicinal purposes, including as a remedy for coughs and colds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Lithospermum |
Appearance
Lithospermum Californicum has hairy stems and leaves, which are lance-shaped and up to six inches long. The plant produces small, cream-colored flowers in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers are tubular and have five lobes. The fruit is a nutlet covered in stiff hairs.
Care Guide
Lithospermum Californicum prefers well-draining soil and full sun. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering during dry spells. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
There are no major pests or diseases that affect Lithospermum Californicum. However, the plant may attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lithospermum Californicum is found in a variety of habitats, including coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and pine-oak woodlands. It prefers well-draining, sandy soils and is often found near the coast or in mountainous areas.
Question and Answer
1. What is Lithospermum Californicum used for?
Answer: The seeds of Lithospermum Californicum are used for medicinal purposes, including as a remedy for coughs and colds.
2. What type of soil does Lithospermum Californicum prefer?
Answer: Lithospermum Californicum prefers well-draining, sandy soils.
3. What pests can affect Lithospermum Californicum?
Answer: Aphids may be attracted to Lithospermum Californicum.
4. What are the hardiness zones for Lithospermum Californicum?
Answer: Lithospermum Californicum is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Related Plants
- Lithospermum canescens
- Lithospermum incisum
- Lithospermum ruderale
- Lithospermum arvense
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Lithospermum californicum. Retrieved from https://www.cnps.org/gardening/plant-profiles/lithospermum-californicum
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Lithospermum californicum. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250094982
- United States Department of Agriculture. (n.d.). Lithospermum californicum. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LICA
