California Compass Plant
Wyethia angustifolia
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. C4B4 — Wyethia angustifolia
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IOverview
Overview
California Compass Plant (Wyethia angustifolia) is a perennial forb found in the wilds of California, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its light requirements of full sun and moisture needs, it thrives in well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to medium-textured types. This plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and is hardy in zones 8-11. Its edible parts include the leaves and seeds, making it a valuable resource for those familiar with its use. One distinctive feature of this plant is its name, which reflects its historical significance and possibly its ability to orient itself towards the sun, much like a compass.
Quick answers
What is California Compass Plant?
California Compass Plant (Wyethia angustifolia) is a perennial forb found in the wilds of California, Oregon, and Washington. Known for its light requirements of full sun and moisture needs, it thrives in well-drained soils ranging from light sandy to medium-textured types.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
California Compass Plant thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It is hardy in zones 8-11, making it suitable for temperate regions. This perennial grows to a height of about 1 meter and can be propagated by seed. The edible parts include the leaves and seeds, which are native to California, Oregon, and Washington.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
8-11
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
Mature size
1.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow California Compass Plant for the first time
7steps
Start with California Compass Plant to gain experience in growing perennials.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a garden fork, compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring after the last frost or transplant young plants in early summer.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Prepare soil with a mix of light sand and compost. Ensure containers have good drainage holes.
- 4
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 5
Ongoing care
Provide full sun exposure and water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune dead leaves as needed.
- 6
Harvest or pruning
Prune spent flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant shape.
- 7
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soils, neglecting sun exposure, not providing enough space between plants.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The California Compass Plant's leaves and seeds are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are typically dried before consumption. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 3 native
Broader regions
native:Oregon, Washington, California
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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