Darkthroat Shootingstar
Dodecatheon pulchellum
Last reviewed: July 2026
Dodecatheon pulchellum (Darkthroat Shootingstar) is a native Idaho forb with distinctive pink flowers that bloom from April through June. This wildflower thrives in partial sun with medium moisture and attracts bees and hummingbirds.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Darkthroat Shootingstar as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 2"–6" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, CO, ID, KS and 9 more states
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.
Growing Darkthroat Shootingstar
Grow Darkthroat Shootingstar in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 4 to 12 inches tall and spread 2 to 6 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
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.
Common questions
- When does Dodecatheon pulchellum bloom?
- Darkthroat Shootingstar blooms from April through June, producing its characteristic backward-swept petals during late spring and early summer.
- What pollinators visit Dodecatheon pulchellum?
- This native wildflower attracts both bees and hummingbirds with its distinctive flowers. The specialized flower structure requires buzz pollination, making it particularly important for native bee species.
- What growing conditions does Darkthroat Shootingstar prefer?
- Dodecatheon pulchellum grows best in partial sun with medium moisture levels. It can tolerate a range from full sun to partial shade and medium to high water conditions.
- Is Darkthroat Shootingstar toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Darkthroat Shootingstar as toxic to livestock.
- Is Darkthroat Shootingstar HOA-friendly?
- Darkthroat Shootingstar takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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 Darkthroat Shootingstar? 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