Grassy Tarweed
Madia dissitiflora
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Pl. B991 — Madia dissitiflora
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IOverview
Overview
Grassy Tarweed (Madia dissitiflora) is an annual forb or herb native to the western United States and northwestern Mexico. It thrives in habitats ranging from British Columbia to California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington. Known for its edible seeds, this plant can grow up to 0.8 meters tall and prefers moist conditions with light (full sun) exposure. Its adaptability to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—makes it a versatile species in diverse environments. One distinctive feature of Grassy Tarweed is its presence in both the native range and cultivated areas as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance.
Quick answers
What is Grassy Tarweed?
Grassy Tarweed (Madia dissitiflora) is an annual forb or herb native to the western United States and northwestern Mexico. It thrives in habitats ranging from British Columbia to California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and Washington.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Grassy Tarweed thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows to a height of 0.8 meters and can be propagated by seed. It is hardy in temperate regions and is native to areas including British Columbia, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, and parts of Mexico Northwest. For best results, provide consistent moisture and ample sunlight.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Grassy Tarweed for the first time
8steps
Start with Grassy Tarweed as an easy-to-grow annual for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, small pots or direct planting area, water can or watering壶
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is warm and moist.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with full sun. Prepare loose, well-draining soil; amend if necessary for containers.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the garden bed or start indoors 4 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged; thin seedlings if necessary after germination.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant health; cut back if needed to shape the plant.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to thin seedlings, not providing enough sunlight, and failing to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seeds of Grassy Tarweed are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often used in traditional dishes, providing a nutritious addition to meals. Skip the preparation details for brevity.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 9 native
Broader regions
native:British Columbia, California, Idaho, Mexico Northwest, Montana, Nevada, Oregon, Utah, Washington
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · b991af4f-3f1f-4568-a76a-91ea36cb1ecb
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