Serpentine arnica (Arnica cernua) is a perennial herb native to serpentine soils in California, known for its bright yellow daisy-like flowers. It prefers well-drained so
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
50% intensity
Prefers bright, indirect light or morning sun with afternoon shade.
Regular watering
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but well-drained.
Well-drained, rocky or sandy soils
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures. Protect from extreme heat.
Light feeding
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring if needed.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|
Toxic if ingested
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water serpentine arnica regularly during the growing season, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering in autumn and winter, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune serpentine arnica after flowering to remove spent flower stalks. This encourages a tidier appearance and can prevent self-seeding if not desired. Avoid heavy pruning; the plant naturally forms a bushy habit.
Remove any dead or damaged foliage at any time.
Serpentine arnica can be propagated by seed sown in autumn or early spring, or by division of established clumps in early spring. Seeds may benefit from a period of cold stratification.
Divisions should be replanted promptly to minimize stress.
Repotting is generally not necessary for established serpentine arnica plants, as they prefer to be undisturbed. If growing in containers, repot every 2-3 years in spring, using a well-draining potting mix, or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Serpentine Arnica (Arnica cernua)
Where Serpentine Arnica (Arnica cernua) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Arnica |
| Species | Arnica cernua |
Similar in genus Arnica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
