Midland Shooting Star

Despite its dainty height, Midland Shooting Star presents a dramatic floral display in spring. The plant produces clumps of oblong, basal leaves from which rise slender, upright stems up to 20 inches tall. Each stem holds a cluster of downward-facing flowers with swept-back petals in shades of pink, white, or lavender and prominent yellow stamens. This ephemeral wildflower blooms in early spring and goes dormant by midsummer, making it a perfect companion for later-emerging perennials. It thrives in part shade and moist, well-drained soil.

• Thrives in rich, well-drained loamy soil; amend with organic matter to improve soil structure if needed.