Bloomeria crocea var. aurea
Common goldenstar
(c) Adam J. Searcy, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Adam J. Searcy · licence
Family: Themidaceae · Type: Herb · Native
Bloomeria crocea var. aurea (Common goldenstar) is a native California herb in the Themidaceae family, recognized by flower size, color pattern, and nectar cup features.
Common goldenstar is a California native perennial found in central western California in foothill woodland at elevations below 1,700 meters. Flowering from April to June, this plant produces bright yellow flowers with delicate perianth segments 11 to 12 millimeters long and distinctive nectar cup cusps. Growing with slender stems characteristic of its lily-like structure, it emerges from underground bulbs in spring grassland and woodland settings. Its linear leaves emerge from the base, creating a grass-like cluster that supports the vibrant yellow blooms. The flower's intricate yellow perianth creates a striking display against the green woodland understory.
Identification and appearance
Key characters: Co-occurs with 4 species; distinguished by flower size, color pattern, and nectar cup features
Habitat and range
Habitat: Foothill woodland
Elevation: < 1700 m
Bloom period
Bloomeria crocea var. aurea blooms Apr-Jun.
How to tell it apart
vs Triteleia: Bloomeria has golden spreading stars; Triteleia has tubular flowers in purple, blue, white, or pale yellow.; vs Primula: Bloomeria grows from bulbs with grass-like leaves; Primula has basal rosettes of broad leaves.; vs Muilla: Bloomeria flowers are golden yellow; Muilla flowers are white.; vs Androstephium: Bloomeria has spreading star petals; Androstephium has tubular flowers.; vs Brodiaea: Bloomeria has golden spreading stars; Brodiaea has purple tubular flowers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bloomeria crocea var. aurea native to California?
Yes. Bloomeria crocea var. aurea is native to California (recorded as native).
When does Bloomeria crocea var. aurea bloom?
Bloomeria crocea var. aurea blooms Apr-Jun.
What plant family does Bloomeria crocea var. aurea belong to?
Bloomeria crocea var. aurea is in the Themidaceae family, genus Bloomeria.
What habitat does Bloomeria crocea var. aurea grow in?
Bloomeria crocea var. aurea grows in Foothill woodland.
Related species
Other California species in the same genus, family, or bioregion.
Sources: Jepson eFlora · CalPhotos
Last updated 2026-10-07
Data from The California Species Project — 14,000+ California species with verified data from CNPS, CDFW, USFWS, Cal-IPC, and more.