Alpine False Goldenaster

Heterotheca pumila

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Asteraceae
Genus:
Heterotheca
Species:
Heterotheca pumila
USDA Symbol:
HEPU14

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
60 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jul,aug,sep,oct
Bloom Colors:
yellow

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Keystone Species Ranking

Pollen Specialist Bee Keystone:
★★★★★ Native pollen specialist bee species supported by this genus (NWF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
rocky, well-drained sandy soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to rocky outcrops and slopes

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds germinate readily after cold stratification; surface sow on well-drained medium.

Pre-treatment: None required

Establishment: The plant is primarily found in the Rocky Mountains of southern Wyoming through Colorado to northern New Mexico, with most populations within Colorado.

Source: npn.rngr.net

ORGHPS Germination Guide: Sow @ 20C. Germinates within 3 months.

Source: Ontario Rock Garden & Hardy Plant Society