Overview

Stanleya pinnatifida is a perennial herb in the genus Stanleya, part of the Brassicaceae family. Stanleya pinnatifida grows best in full sun, and tolerates well-drained and sandy or rocky soils soils. Suggested uses include xeriscaping, rock gardens and native plant gardens. It is native to southwestern United States.

About

Stanleya pinnatifida is a perennial herb in the Brassicaceae native to the southwestern United States. It favours full sun and thrives in well-drained, sandy or rocky soils with dry to medium moisture. Flowering occurs from June to August, offering a summer display. Use it in xeriscaping, rock gardens or native-plant schemes where drainage is sharp.

About the genus

Stanleya is a genus of flowering plants in the family Brassicaceae known commonly as prince's plumes. It includes seven species native to the western and central United States and northern Mexico. These are herbs or erect shrubs which bear dense, plumelike inflorescences of white to bright yellow flowers with long stamens.

Wikipedia contributors, "Stanleya (plant)", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Stanleya (plant)

In the garden

Stanleya pinnatifida, known as desert plume, is a perennial herb from the Brassicaceae native to the southwestern United States. It occupies arid, rocky habitats in its range and adapts to garden sites that mimic those conditions. In the UK give the plant full sun and a free-draining position; sandy or stony soils suit it better than heavy, moisture-retentive ground. Soil moisture should be kept dry to medium rather than persistently wet. Plant into a raised gravel bed, rock garden or a dry border where drainage is excellent and exposure is sunny. It is appropriate for xeriscaping and native-plant gardens that favour drought-tolerant species. During establishment water sparingly and avoid over-rich soil mixes that retain moisture. Gardening tasks are limited to siting it in the correct aspect and keeping the root run free-draining. Flowering runs from June to August, so position Stanleya pinnatifida where its summer stems can be seen from paths or seating areas; it performs best on a south- or west-facing gravel bank where its seasonal display complements other drought-tolerant plants.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Stanleya

Sunlight

full sun

Soil type

well-drained, sandy or rocky soils

Soil moisture

dry to medium

Plant details

Stanleya pinnatifida size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial herb

Suggested uses

xeriscaping, rock gardens, native plant gardens

Native to

southwestern United States

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Stanleya pinnatifida

Cultivation

Prefers dry, well-drained soils and full sun; drought tolerant once established.

Propagation

seed

Frequently asked questions