Mentzelia — Blazingstar and Stickleaf: A Practical Guide
Mentzelia is a group of wildflower plants that stand out for bright, star-shaped blooms and sticky, rough leaves. You might know them as blazingstar or stickleaf. They’re often found in dry, open places and are great if you want low-water color in a garden or restoration project.
Look for these features when identifying Mentzelia: five-pointed, often yellow or white flowers; leaves with tiny, sticky hairs that can cling to skin or clothing; and a habit that ranges from small annuals to taller perennials. Popular types include Mentzelia lindleyi (the golden blazingstar) and larger species like Mentzelia laevicaulis. Bloom time is usually spring into summer, depending on species and local climate.
How to grow Mentzelia
Mentzelia likes sun and drainage. Plant it where it gets full sun for most of the day and in soil that doesn’t stay wet. Rocky, sandy, or poor soils are often fine — these plants evolved for dry sites, so heavy feeding or rich soil can actually reduce flowering.
Start from seed for the best results. Many gardeners sow seeds directly in fall or early spring. Some species do better if seeds experience a cold period first, so fall sowing mimics natural conditions. Press seeds into the soil surface but don’t bury them deeply; small seeds need light to help germinate. Once seedlings appear, give them room to spread — spacing depends on the species but 6–12 inches is a reasonable guide for smaller types.
Water sparingly after establishment. Mentzelia tolerates drought; frequent watering encourages weak growth and fewer flowers. Mulch sparingly and avoid heavy mulch that keeps the crown too cool or moist. Deadheading spent flowers can extend bloom in some varieties, but allowing seed set helps plants self-sow if you want natural patches next year.
Pollinators, uses, and cautions
These flowers attract a mix of pollinators — native bees, beetles, and in some species, night-flying moths. That makes Mentzelia a good choice for pollinator-friendly gardens and native plantings. They also work well in rock gardens, dry slopes, and xeriscapes where quick color is needed without extra water.
Handle stickleafs with care: the tiny hairs on leaves and stems can irritate sensitive skin and grab onto clothing. They’re not commonly used as medicinal plants in mainstream herbal guides, so don’t assume any home remedies from Mentzelia without reliable sources. Also, choose local seed sources when possible to support native ecosystems and avoid introducing non-local genotypes.
If you want a tough, low-water wildflower that adds bright, star-like blooms and helps pollinators, Mentzelia is worth trying. Start small, match the species to your local conditions, and enjoy watching these gritty little plants brighten up dry spots where other flowers struggle.
