Shooting Star
Dodecatheon meadia (syn. Primula meadia)
Shooting Star is an enchanting spring ephemeral wildflower with distinctive reflexed petals. Its nodding blooms with swept-back petals resemble meteors streaking across the sky, creating a magical display before going dormant in summer.
Primulaceae (Primrose family)
Late spring to early summer (April-June)
Symbolism & Meanings
Key Meanings
Perfect For
Color Meanings
Similar flowers: primroses and chionodoxas also share similar meanings.
Cultural Significance
The Greek genus name Dodecatheon means "flower of the twelve gods," likely referring to the ancient belief that primroses were under the care of the twelve superior gods of Olympus. Linnaeus named it this way perhaps because of the unusual form, elegance, and color of the flower. The common name "Shooting Star" comes from the swept-back petals and pointed stamens that resemble a shooting star or meteor plummeting to earth. In Victorian flower language, it represents wishes and fleeting beauty.Shop Our Floral Collection
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Physical Characteristics
Natural Habitat
Growing Guide
Sunlight
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates full shade if soil is moist in spring
Water
Moist soil in spring during active growth; tolerates drier conditions after going dormant in summer
Soil
Humus-rich, Rocky or sandy, Well-drained, Moist but not wet, Slightly acidic preferred
Expert Growing Tips
Plant in groups for best visual impact
Allow foliage to die back naturally after flowering to nourish roots
Companion plant with later-blooming perennials that will fill the space after dormancy
Seeds require cold stratification; sow fresh or stratify over winter
Can be difficult from seed; takes 3-4 years to flower from seed
Division is easier in early spring or fall when dormant
Deer resistant
Goes summer dormant - this is natural, not a sign of distress
Uses & Benefits
Ornamental Uses
- Woodland gardens and native plant gardens
- Rock gardens and alpine plantings
- Wildflower meadows and prairie restorations
- Spring ephemeral displays
- Naturalizing in masses for dramatic effect
- Pollinator gardens (attracts native bees)
Traditional Uses
- Native Americans may have used the plant traditionally to aid women during pregnancy (not confirmed)
- Not commonly used in modern herbal medicine
- No significant medicinal applications documented
Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals before using any plant medicinally.
Further Reading
Frequently Asked Questions about the Shooting Star
when do shooting star flowers bloom?
Shooting Star flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, typically from April to June depending on location and weather, for about 3-4 weeks.
why is it called shooting star flower?
The flower is called Shooting Star because its swept-back petals and pointed cluster of stamens resemble a meteor or shooting star plummeting to earth.
are shooting star flowers native to north america?
Yes, Shooting Stars are native North American wildflowers found in prairies and open woods from Wisconsin to Pennsylvania, south to Georgia and Texas.
what does shooting star flower symbolize?
Shooting Star symbolizes divine beauty, fleeting moments, wishes, and celestial grace. The name Dodecatheon means 'flower of the twelve gods' in Greek mythology.
why do shooting stars go dormant in summer?
Shooting Stars are spring ephemerals that complete their life cycle in spring, then go dormant in summer to survive hot, dry conditions. This is natural and healthy.
how to grow shooting star from seed?
Sow Shooting Star seeds fresh in summer or cold stratify them over winter. Seeds are slow to germinate and plants take 3-4 years to flower, so division is often easier.
Available Colors
Quick Facts
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Primrose
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Chionodoxa
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Brachyscome
Brachyscome iberidifolia (and other spp.)
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