New Mexico Starviolet

Houstonia prostrata

Native to:
Mexico, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Rubiaceae
Genus:
Houstonia
Species:
Houstonia prostrata
USDA Symbol:
HEVE4

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Annual
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
5 cm
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun
Bloom Colors:
white, lavender
Ground Cover:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
small pollinators
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to rocky, open areas

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Seeds are tiny and require light for germination; surface sow.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI