Poached Egg Plant, Douglas' meadowfoam, Ornduff's meadowfoam
Limnanthes douglasii

Family: Limnanthaceae

What it is like

Limnanthes douglasii is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to August, and the seeds ripen from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Bees. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 0.3

Where it is found

Moist places below 1000 metres.

South-western N. America - California.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating:

Attracts Wildlife: Plants noted for attracting wildlife

Food Forest: Plants for Edible Forest Gardens and Food Forests.

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in any soil, including sandy soils. Prefers a fertile well-drained soil. Prefers an open sunny position and a cool root run, doing well by concrete paths, rocks etc. The flowers diffuse a gentle sweet perfume that is most pronounced on a calm warm day. A very good bee and hoverfly plant. Plants usually self-sow freely.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring or autumn in situ. Germination takes place within 3 weeks.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Annual

Hardiness: 4-8

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

L. sulphurea.