Tuber Starwort
Pseudostellaria jamesiana
Last reviewed: July 2026
Light
part shade
Water
medium
Size
4"–12" H × 3"–8" W
Bloom
Apr, May, Jun
Native to
CA, CO, ID, KS and 7 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Tuber starwort is a low-growing native wildflower that forms small clumps in partially shaded areas. It produces delicate white star-shaped flowers from April through June, then may go dormant in summer heat. This woodland perennial spreads slowly and works well as a groundcover in naturalized areas.
In an HOA neighborhood
Tuber Starwort 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.
- Extremely small size makes it appear sparse in formal settings
- Wildflower appearance may be deemed too informal
- May disappear or look patchy in maintained landscapes
Wildlife value
The spring flowers attract native bees and beetles during an important early season blooming period. Its low growth habit provides shelter for beneficial ground-dwelling insects.
Common questions
- How much sun does Tuber Starwort need?
- Tuber Starwort grows best in part shade conditions.
- When does Tuber Starwort bloom?
- Tuber Starwort blooms in April, May, and June.
- Where is Tuber Starwort native?
- Tuber Starwort (Pseudostellaria jamesiana) is native to CA, CO, ID, KS and 7 more states, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What pollinators does Tuber Starwort attract?
- Tuber Starwort draws bees and beetles.
- Is Tuber Starwort HOA-friendly?
- Tuber Starwort 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 Tuber Starwort? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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