California Goldfields
Lasthenia californica
Last reviewed: June 2026
Lasthenia californica (California Goldfields) is a native annual wildflower producing bright yellow daisy-like blooms from March through May in California and Oregon grasslands and meadows.
California Goldfields (Lasthenia californica) is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs or cats (aspca.org (opens in new tab), last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet shows symptoms after eating any plant, call the ASPCA at (888) 426-4435.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
4"–16" H × 4"–12" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
CA, OR
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
A low-growing annual wildflower that creates stunning carpets of bright golden-yellow flowers in spring. It thrives in full sun with minimal water, making it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens and meadow plantings. After blooming, plants naturally die back until next growing season.
Growing California Goldfields
Grow California Goldfields in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 4 to 16 inches tall and spread 4 to 12 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
California Goldfields is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 2 out of 5.
Works well in: mid zone, backyard only.
- Dies back after spring, leaving bare patches in summer
- Can spread and look unintentional if not contained
- Best incorporated within designed wildflower areas rather than as standalone plants
Wildlife value
Attracts native bees and butterflies with its abundant pollen and nectar. The dense floral displays provide important early-season resources for pollinators.
Common questions
- When does California Goldfields bloom?
- California Goldfields blooms from March through May, creating spectacular golden displays in spring grasslands and meadows.
- What pollinators visit California Goldfields?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of California Goldfields, attracted to the abundant nectar in the bright yellow flower heads.
- Where is California Goldfields native?
- California Goldfields is native to California and Oregon, where it grows naturally in grasslands, meadows, and open areas with well-draining soils.
- Is California Goldfields toxic to dogs?
- California Goldfields is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for dogs (aspca.org).
- Is California Goldfields toxic to cats?
- California Goldfields is not on the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center toxic plant list for cats (aspca.org).
- Is California Goldfields HOA-friendly?
- California Goldfields is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow California Goldfields? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz