Lasthenia conjugens, commonly known as Contra Costa goldfields, is an endangered species of wildflower endemic to a limited range within the San Francisco Bay Area of the state of California, USA. Specifically this rare species occurs in Napa, Santa Barbara, Solano, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, Monterey and Alameda Counties. This annual herb typically flowers from March through June, and its colonies grow in vernal pool habitats at elevations not exceeding 100 meters above sea level. The Jepson Manual notes that the present distribution is limited to the deltaic Sacramento Valley, principally Napa and Solano Counties, but the historic range of L. conjugens is known to be significantly wider. In any case, historically the range has included parts of the North Coast, Sacramento Valley, and San Francisco Bay Area as well as the South Coast. Alternatively and less frequently this taxon has been referred to as Baeria fremontii var. conjugens. Even though this plant is found almost exclusively in vernal pools, its behavior in controlled experiments indicates it prefers less than complete inundation. This implies that the plant actually prefers a theoretically drier environment, but is merely less successful than its competitors in surviving in drier (non-inundation) climate regimes.
How to keep Lasthenia Conjugens.
Pruning
Contra Costa Goldfields are known for their vibrant yellow flowers and thrive with pruning from early to late spring. To encourage more blooms and improve air circulation, consider techniques such as deadheading and shaping. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools for precise cuts, which will promote healthier regrowth and reduce the risk of disease.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Herb
- Genus
- Lasthenia
- Family
- Asteraceae
Other names.
