Dodecatheon hendersonii (Henderson's Shooting Star)

Plant Description: This bulb producing perennial begins in late winter with thick, spoon shaped leaves at the base of the plant. Showy flowers appear in early spring on top of a tall 12 in (30 cm) leafless flower stalk. Flowers are inside out with petals magenta to deep lavender to white, with a white strip before the black fertile part. It is summer deciduous, dying back to the ground after the rains cease. 

• Height: 5-16 in
• Sun Needs: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Needs: Well-drained soil
• Bloom Time: February - May 

Landscape Use and Ecological Function: This native plant is found west of the Cascades in open, dry-to-moist woods and in grassy shady areas below 6500 ft (2000 m). It needs good drainage and a dry summer period. This plant attracts beneficial insects.