Dodecatheon meadia (Shooting Star)

Botanical name: Dodecatheon meadia

Common names: Shooting Star, Pride of Ohio, Roosterheads, Prairie Pointers

Family: Primulaceae

Origin: North America

Dodecatheon are summer-dormant herbaceous perennials with basal rosettes of simple leaves and erect or arching stems bearing umbels of cyclamen-like flowers with strongly reflexed petals. The flowers can range from purplish, through pinks to white with cone-shaped, purple stamens and pistils.

Native habitat: Open woods and glades, rocky wooded slopes, dry to wet meadows and prairies. Prefers a moist to wet site.

Excellent for a waterside planting, but adaptable to rich border conditions or the woodland garden. They are also good for alpine houses.