Description

One often encounters the blazing star on a hot summer afternoon in a rocky, barren setting. Amidst the dry foliage of other dormant plants, the large yellow flowers of the blazing star shine conspicuously. The plant pictured above was growing on a sandy bar along the American River. The blazing star is quite wide spread in western North America and California, including the Diablo Range of the SF Bay Area. The growth form is an open fountain of gray green leaves, which admittedly look a little lanky. The highlight of the plant is the bloom in summer and early fall, when the large white and yellow flowers steal the show. Based on its distribution, the blazing star is apparently quite adaptable to different environments, requiring only a sunny, well-draining location. Plant among other low-water shrubs and perennials where the plant may be overlooked until its flowers appear. The roots of this Mentzelia are somewhat sensitive so be careful when planting.