Orthocarpus imbricatus

Mountain owl's-clover

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Taxonomy

Family Orobanchaceae · Genus Orthocarpus

Common Names

Mountain owl's-cloverImbricate owl's-clover

Context

nativeRegion

Western North America, primarily Pacific Northwest (British Columbia to California, inland to Idaho and Montana).

usdaZones

4–8

companionPlants

Native grasses, Wildflowers, especially those of prairies and open meadows

culturalUses

Primarily of ecological interest; supports pollinators and contributes to biodiversity. Occasionally used in wildflower restoration or native plant gardens.

Care

Care Requirements

LightPrefers full sun to partial shade.

WateringRequires moderate watering; prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions.

SoilThrives in sandy, rocky, or loamy soils; prefers low fertility.

FertilizerGenerally does not need fertilizer; avoid over-fertilizing as it can reduce vigor.

HumidityTolerates a range of humidity but does best in relatively dry environments.

TemperatureAdapted to temperate climates; tolerates mild cold and summer heat.

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitAnnual herb with slender, upright stems and spikes of clustered flowers.

Mature SizeTypically 10–40 cm (4–16 in) tall.

Growth RateFast-growing, completing lifecycle in one season.

BloomingBlooms in late spring to mid-summer.

DormancySeeds overwinter; no living above-ground structures survive through winter.

Propagation

MethodsSeed

DifficultyModerate (requires well-timed sowing and specific host proximity due to partial parasitism)

Best SeasonAutumn (fall) or early spring for direct sowing.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningNot required; let plant complete natural lifecycle.

RepottingNot applicable for most settings; best grown directly in ground.

Pests & DiseasesGenerally not susceptible to major pests or diseases.

ToxicityNot commonly listed as toxic, but ingestion is not recommended.

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