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Dodecatheon clevelandii ssp. patulum, commonly known as the Padre's Shooting Star, is a captivating perennial herbaceous plant native to California in the United States. This species graces the landscape with its charming, nodding, white to light pink flowers, each marked with a distinct yellow center and resembling shooting stars. Flourishing in diverse habitats, from grasslands to oak woodlands, Padre's Shooting Star thrives in well-drained soils and partial shade. Blooming in spring, this plant attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies with its delicate blossoms. Its basal rosettes of lance-shaped leaves add to its visual appeal, making it an enchanting addition to native plant gardens and naturalistic landscapes. Recognized for its beauty and ecological importance in supporting local wildlife, this species contributes to the biodiversity and aesthetic allure of California's native flora. Zones 4-8
Germination
To germinate Dodecatheon clevelandii ssp. patulum seeds, start by lightly scarifying them with fine sandpaper or soaking them in room-temperature water for 24 hours to break their hard seed coat. Prepare a well-draining potting mix or use a blend of peat moss and sand. Sow the scarified seeds on the surface of the soil mixture in individual containers or seedling trays, gently pressing them into the substrate without burying them too deeply. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, ensuring it remains slightly damp. Enclose the containers in a plastic bag or cover them with a clear plastic lid to create a humid environment. Place the containers in a shaded area with indirect sunlight. Germination typically occurs within a few weeks to a couple of months. Once the seedlings emerge and develop several sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted carefully into larger pots or an outdoor garden area with well-draining soil and partial shade, providing ample space for their growth into mature plants.