Shooting Star Light Pink 'Goliath'

Dodecatheon meadia 'Goliath' is a particularly vigorous and taller form of the North American shooting star, perfectly adapted to the damp, cool summers of the UK. In late spring, it sends up sturdy stems reaching 40-50cm, topped with umbels of striking, cyclamen-like flowers. The petals are a rich pink-lilac, swept backwards to reveal a prominent pointed yellow and black "beak," giving the impression of a rocket in flight. Below, it forms a basal rosette of oblong, mid-green leaves. Like many woodlanders, it is a spring ephemeral and will go dormant by mid-summer, so it is best planted among ferns or late-developing perennials to fill the gap. It is fully hardy (H5) and prefers a cool, moist, but well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Partial shade is ideal for preventing the soil from getting too hot. This cultivar is prized for its larger-than-average flowers and robust growth habit, making it a real focal point in the spring woodland.

Sun: Partial shade.

Soil: Moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soil.

Hardiness: H5 — down to −15°C.

Flowering: May, Jun.