Darkthroat Shootingstar
Dodecatheon pulchellum
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
ID
Pollinators
bees, hummingbirds
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Darkthroat shootingstar is a charming native wildflower that produces distinctive pink to purple flowers with swept-back petals from April through June. This compact perennial grows in small clumps and goes dormant in summer, disappearing completely until the following spring.
In an HOA neighborhood
Darkthroat Shootingstar takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Completely disappears in summer leaving bare spots
- Very small size makes it look sparse in formal settings
- Wildflower appearance may seem too informal for front yards
Wildlife value
The unique flowers attract native bees and occasionally hummingbirds during the spring blooming period. It supports pollinator populations during early season when few other flowers are available.
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.
Does Darkthroat Shootingstar fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.