Meadowfoam
Limnanthes albafam. Limnanthaceae
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Pl. E668 — Limnanthes alba
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IOverview
Overview
Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba) is a light-loving annual forb or herb native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon. This plant thrives in moist environments with well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Known for its edible seeds, meadowfoam has gained attention beyond its ornamental value due to its culinary uses. One distinctive feature is its white, daisy-like flowers that appear early in the spring, adding a splash of color to the landscape. Another notable characteristic is its ability to grow up to 0.2 meters tall, making it an attractive addition to gardens and natural settings.
Quick answers
What is Meadowfoam?
Meadowfoam (Limnanthes alba) is a light-loving annual forb or herb native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon. This plant thrives in moist environments with well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Meadowfoam thrives in full sun and prefers moist conditions, making it suitable for garden beds that retain some moisture but are not overly wet. It grows well in light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils, though it is best adapted to lighter soil types. As an annual forb/herb, meadowfoam requires regular watering to maintain its moisture needs. This plant can reach a height of 0.2 meters and is native to California and Oregon, suggesting it may be hardy in temperate regions. For propagation, seeds can be sown directly into the garden bed after the last frost, ensuring they receive ample sunlight for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Meadowfoam for the first time
8steps
Start with easy care and quick results by planting Meadowfoam in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, a small trowel or scoop.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in early spring after the last frost.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose light (sandy), medium, or heavy soil. Ensure good drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep and about 10-15 cm apart in moist soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist to help seedlings establish.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Provide full sun exposure.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poor soil, neglecting to prune dead flowers.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:oil
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Oregon
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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