Dodecatheon meadia (commonly called shooting stars) is the best known of this genus of about 14 species, mainly from North America and Siberia. They are also known as the American cowslip and prairie pointer. Although they are sometimes referred to as ‘Shooting stars’ they are a member of the Primula family.
These fascinating spring flowering plants could also be grown in pots in a shaded position. Flowers (shooting stars) appear on tall stalks 20 – 60 cm depending on species and conditions.
Some species and cultivars have outstanding flowers, with actual flower colour varying from pale tones to stronger pinks.
Look for ‘Queen Victoria’ which is pictured right, lovely cyclamen pink flowers during spring.
How To grow Dodecatheon meadia – Basic Care
Dodecatheon or ‘Shooting Stars’, are a woodland plant and as such they do grow best in a filtered shade position in a humus rich well drained soil. pH 5 to 7.
Keep plants moist, we recommend mulch around plants when they appear in spring for extra care.
Where To Plant
- Light requirements: Best in partial shade or filtered sunlight — mimicking woodland conditions. Can tolerate morning sun but should be protected from hot afternoon sun.
- Location tips: deal under deciduous trees or shrubs where plants receive spring sun before the canopy fills in.
Soil Requirements
- Soil type: Prefer rich, humus-filled, well-drained soil.
- Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
- pH range: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5–7).
- Soil preparation: Incorporate leaf mould, compost, or well-rotted organic matter before planting.
- Ensure good drainage—consider adding grit or sand if soil is heavy.
Planting Instructions
- When to plant: In autumn or early spring, while plants are dormant or just emerging.
- Spacing: Space plants 20–25 cm (8–10 in) apart to allow natural spreading.
- Depth: Plant crowns at soil level; do not bury too deeply.
- Water well after planting to settle the soil.
Watering & Moisture
Keep soil consistently moist during the growing season (spring to early summer).
- Do not allow to dry out completely during growth and flowering.
- Reduce watering once the foliage begins to die back naturally after blooming.
- Mulch in spring:
- Apply a light layer of organic mulch (compost, leaf mould, or fine bark) around emerging shoots.
- Helps retain moisture, keep roots cool, and suppress weeds.
Seasonal Care
Spring:
◦ Watch for emerging leaves; remove old mulch and apply fresh.
◦ Keep soil moist and weed-free.
◦ Fertilize lightly with a balanced organic fertilizer or slow-release pellet.
Summer:
◦ After flowering, plants go dormant; foliage naturally dies back.
◦ Stop watering regularly—just keep soil slightly moist.
◦ Mark location to avoid disturbing dormant crowns.
Autumn/Winter:
◦ Dormant plants need little attention.
◦ Avoid excessive winter wetness to prevent rot.
How To Propagate Dodecatheon
How to grow ‘Shooting Stars’ Plants from seed.
Shooting Star seeds are best sown in late autumn to early winter in a cold frame . Seeds can be stratified first by placing in a zip lock plastic bag in the refrigerator for 6 – 8 weeks.
Some growers place the seeds on a barely damp paper towel in a zip lock bag in the refrigerator. We have found that these are not the easiest seed to germinate, so unless you are patient, go for established plants.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Dodecatheon meadia.
- Common Name – Shooting Stars.
- Position – Best in afternoon shade.
- Soil – Humus rich and well drained – especially over winter.
- Height – To around 60 cm.
- Spread – To 30 cm.
- Flowers – Varying shades of pink to violet.
- Flowering Time – Spring.
- Foliage – Mid to deep green.
Varieties and Species
D. clevelandii is a great plant for partial shade in a well drained situation with a dry dormant summer period.
Other popular Species include D. meadia, D. clevlandii var Insulare and D. hendersoni.
Other Dodecatheon Species:
- D. alpinum.
- D. conjugans.
- D. cruciatum.
- D. cusickii.
- D. dentatum.
- D. frigidum.
- D. integrifolium.
- D. jeffreyi.
- D. pauciflorum.
- D. poeticum.
- D. pulchellum.
- D. redolens.
Dodecatheon Propagation
You can propagate Shooting Stars from seed or by division.
- By seed:
- Sow fresh seed in autumn or late winter; needs a cold period to germinate. Seeds can be stratified first by placing in a zip lock plastic bag in the refrigerator for 6 – 8 weeks.
- Seedlings may take 2–3 years to flower.
- Some growers place the seeds on a barely damp paper towel in a zip lock bag in the refrigerator. We have found that these are not the easiest seed to germinate, so unless you are patient, go for established plants.
- By division:
- Divide mature clumps in early spring before growth resumes.
- Handle roots gently; replant immediately at same depth.
Companion Plants
Where to Find Dodecatheon Plants (shooting star plants) and Bulbs
'Sylvan Vale' 375 Olinda Creek Rd, Kalorama, VIC.3766
Including a large range of Rare and unusual bulbs, corms and perennials
www.tonkinsbulbs.com.au
125 Palmer Rd Jindivick 3818
Open Thursday - Sunday 10am - 4pm
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.muskersbroughtonhall.com.au
PO Box 7040 Leura NSW 2780
Rare woodland plants, Trilliums Epimediums, Arisaemas, plus much more.www.lynnsrareplants.com.au