Hoary Puccoon (Lithospermum canescens)

Hoary Puccoon

Lithospermum canescens

Hoary Puccoon is a drought-tolerant perennial that grows 6 to 18 inches tall and produces clusters of bright yellow-orange flowers in spring and early summer. It is commonly found in dry prairies, sandy soils, and open woodlands. The plant's deep taproot makes it difficult to transplant but allows it to thrive in harsh conditions. It produces a small, egg-shaped nutlet fruit that turns solid white when mature. This species is valuable in prairie restorations and pollinator gardens, providing an early-season nectar source for bees and butterflies.

Characteristics

Type	Forb
Sun	Full Sun, Partial Sun
Soil	Loam, Sand/Gravel, Calcareous
Moisture	Dry, Mesic, Wet
Average Max Height (inches)	14
Suggested Plant Spacing (inches)	12
Bloom month(s)	May, June, July, August
Bloom Color or Type	Orange, Yellow
Dominance	Low

Range Maps

Sowing Information

Sow seed onto a firm, weed-free seedbed. Hand-broadcast seed making two perpendicular passes for even coverage. If planting a mix, broadcast the grass component first and lightly rake/drag it into the top 1/8–1/4" of soil. Next, broadcast wildflower/forb seed and press it into the soil surface (with a roller/cultipacker or the back of a rake) to ensure good seed-to-soil contact. After seeding, apply a very light layer of clean, seed-free straw (or other weed-free, site-appropriate mulch) to reduce erosion and retain moisture without smothering seedlings. A good rainfall or thorough watering will help settle seed and mulch and improve germination.

Planting Information

Dig a hole in your planting site slightly larger than the plant’s root system. When placing the plant into the hole, ensure that the soil line remains consistent with its original level in the pot. Fill in around the roots with the excavated soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly the same day to promote successful establishment.