Shining Blazingstar
NameShining Blazingstar
Scientific NameMentzelia lindleyi
Common NamesShining Blazingstar, Lindley's Blazingstar, Blazing Star, Golden Blazingstar
Plant FamilyLoasaceae
Natural HabitatNative to California, this plant thrives in dry, open, often disturbed areas such as chaparral, grasslands, and desert slopes. It prefers full sun exposure and well-drained, sandy or rocky soils.
Parts Usedleaf,seed
Medicinal Actionsanti-inflammatory
Traditional UsesWhile Mentzelia lindleyi is primarily cultivated as an ornamental plant, some species within the Mentzelia genus have been ethnobotanically noted for minor traditional uses by Native American tribes. These include using leaves for poultices on sores or seeds as a food source. Specific, well-documented medicinal uses for Mentzelia lindleyi itself are not widely recognized in mainstream herbalism.
Preparation Methodspoultice,powder
Contraindications & WarningsNone well-documented due to limited medicinal use and research on this specific species.
Cultivation NotesPrefers full sun and well-drained, sandy or rocky soils. It is drought-tolerant once established and is typically grown as an annual. Propagated by seed, it often self-sows readily. Ideal for xeriscaping, rock gardens, and native plant landscapes.
Raritycommon
Description
Mentzelia lindleyi is an annual herb native to California, characterized by its striking, bright yellow, five-petaled flowers that often have a reddish-orange base and numerous stamens. The flowers typically open in the late afternoon and evening, attracting nocturnal pollinators. Its stems are often reddish, and leaves are lobed or toothed.
