Hairy Puccoon
Lithospermum diffusa
Diffusa
About this plant
Lithospermum diffusa, commonly known as Hairy Puccoon, is a low-growing perennial plant with hairy leaves and bright yellow flowers. It is valued for its vibrant blooms and ability to thrive in dry, sunny areas. Historically, some species in this group were used by Native Americans for dye and medicinal purposes. It is often used in wildflower gardens and natural landscaping.
Taxonomy
- Genus
- Lithospermum
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Higher classification
- Order: Boraginales
- Plant type
- Perennial
- Lifespan
- Perennial
Origin & Distribution
- Native region
- Southeastern United States
- Distribution
- Native to the southeastern United States, especially in sandy or rocky soils in open woods and fields.
Care
- Light preference
- Full sun
- Suitable locations
- Outdoor, Balcony, Greenhouse
- Preferred window facing
- South-facing, West-facing
- Watering frequency
- Moderate
- Watering interval
- 7–14 days
- Humidity
- Normal
- Minimum
- -20 °C
- Maximum
- 35 °C
- Optimal
- 15-25 °C
- USDA hardiness zones
- 5-9
- Soil pH
- 6.0-7.5 (neutral to slightly acidic)
- Soil type
- well-draining sandy or loamy soil
Watering. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry out between watering. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Fertilizing. This plant generally does not require much fertilizing. If desired, a light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring can support growth.
Lithospermum diffusa is a hardy plant that prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance once established. Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root problems, so watering should be moderate and soil should not stay soggy.
Propagation
- Propagation methods
- Seeds, Cuttings
- Care difficulty
- Easy
Ornamental features
- Flowering
- Yes
- Flowering period
- spring to early summer
Bright yellow flowers with hairy green foliage, low spreading form that creates a colorful ground cover.
Toxicity & Safety
- Toxic to humans
- Non-toxic
- Toxic to pets
- Non-toxic
- Weed potential
- Not considered a weed
This plant is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.
Allergy information
- Allergy risk
- Low
- Allergy triggers
- Pollen
- Pollen level
- Low
Lithospermum diffusa is not known to cause significant allergies. People sensitive to plant pollen generally do not react strongly to this plant. However, if you have severe pollen allergies, it's best to avoid close contact during its flowering period to reduce any risk.
Common problems
Common problems include root rot from overwatering and poor drainage. It may also suffer if grown in too much shade or overly wet soil.
Uses
Used mainly as an ornamental plant in gardens and natural landscaping for its attractive yellow flowers and ground-covering habit.
Notes
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape. Prefers sandy, well-drained soils and does not tolerate heavy clay soils well. Repotting is generally not needed as it is mostly grown outdoors.