Lithospermum incisum
Lithospermum incisum
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Pl. A12E — Lithospermum incisum
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IOverview
Overview
Lithospermum incisum, commonly known as American gromwell or Indian paintbrush, is a perennial herb native to the central and western United States, extending into Canada and Mexico. Found in habitats ranging from dry to moist conditions, this plant thrives in light (sandy) to medium soil types and requires full sun. It grows up to 0.3 meters tall and is hardy in zones 3-7. Known for its edible roots, which can be used as a food source, L. incisum also has ornamental value with its distinctive foliage and flowers. Its native range includes states like Alberta, Arizona, Arkansas, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, among others, making it adaptable to various climates within its natural distribution.
Quick answers
What is Lithospermum incisum?
Lithospermum incisum, commonly known as American gromwell or Indian paintbrush, is a perennial herb native to the central and western United States, extending into Canada and Mexico. Found in habitats ranging from dry to moist conditions, this plant thrives in light (sandy) to medium soil types and requires full sun.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Lithospermum incisum thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is either light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate both dry and moist conditions but generally requires less frequent watering once established. Hardy from zones 3-7, this perennial grows to about 0.3 meters tall and is native to a wide range of North American regions. Propagate through root division in spring for best results. Harvest the roots for edible use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
3-7
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.3 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Lithospermum incisum for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, low-maintenance approach to growing Lithospermum incisum.
- 1
What you'll need
A small garden space or container, seeds or young plants, good quality potting soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining mix with sand for better drainage. Ensure containers have holes at the bottom for water to escape.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors in prepared soil, or start them indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside. Transplant young plants carefully to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly but ensure the soil stays moist until germination and new growth appears. Keep the area weed-free.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure, water only when the soil is dry to the touch, and mulch around the plant to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage new growth and maintain a neat appearance. Avoid harvesting roots as they are not commonly used for culinary purposes.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil that doesn't drain well, neglecting to provide enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: Tea
Other uses:CraftingDyeFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 30 native
Broader regions
native:Arizona, Arkansas, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Manitoba, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Northwest, Mexico Southwest, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Ontario, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Alberta
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · a12ee24d-da1c-4a1f-9050-64aa14a024ba
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