SafePlants

Limnanthes alba: White Meadowfoam

Considerations for Pets

• The plant is described as growing to 0.2 meters (0 ft 8 in), so it could be within reach of some pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is described as growing to 0.2 meters (0 ft 8 in), so it could be within reach of small children.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Limnanthes alba
• Common Name: White Meadowfoam
• Other common names mentioned include: Meadowfoam, Common meadow foam, Snow white douglas’ meadowfoam.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Limnanthaceae (Meadow-Foam Family)
• Latin Name: Limnanthes alba Benth.
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Limnanthes alba ssp. alba is also mentioned.
• Close relatives: Members of the Brassicales (mustard plants).

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to California and Oregon.
• Commonly found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States.
• Favors vernal pools and wetland, riparian habitats.

Ecological Role

• The plant is described as a native annual herb.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Annual plant, growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in).
• Herbaceous winter annual.
• Flowers from May to June.
• Flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs).
• Flowers are typically white with a yellow center, though all-yellow variants exist. The center can be described as large.
• Described as a small plant, dense, low growing.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Pure white blossoms are sought after by bees and other pollinators.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "Meadowfoam" arose due to the appearance, at full bloom, of its solid canopy of creamy white flowers, which resembles foam.
• Meadowfoam seed oil is coveted by the cosmetic industry.
• The plant’s seed oil is used to help fuel a race car and erase wrinkles.

Further Information

• Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center is a good source for information.