Species Yellow Screwstem
lime-yellow buds with lime-green stems and dark-green leaves

Yellow Screwstem

Bartonia virginica

Also Known As - Yellow Bartonia
Yellow Screwstem (Bartonia virginica) is an annual plant native to the Eastern United States. It stands up to 36 inches in height and produces yellow flowers which bloom from May to August. Its stems are slim and twisty, giving it its unique name. It prefers dry, open woodlands and grasslands and is a popular garden addition, adding an attractive splash of yellow to any landscape. Its medicinal properties have been long known to Native Americans, as it was used for a variety of illnesses. Its flowers are also popular with pollinators and birds.

Watering:

Minimal

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Division,Cutting,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Flowers:

Yellow Flowers

Sun:

Sun, Partial Shade

Soil:

Sand

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

Yellow Screwstems require regular watering in order to thrive. Water the plants about once every 7-10 days, with light, frequent sprinkles. Provide enough water to moisten the soil evenly, but avoid letting the soil become soggy. If you're in an area with hot, dry summers, Yellow Screwstem may require more frequent watering, about once every 5-7 days. During periods of rain, it’s still important to check the soil and water if needed.

sunlight

Yellow Screwstem (Bartonia virginica) requires full sun to maintain its vibrant yellow flowers in the summer months from May to August. These flowers are most vibrant in direct sunlight, and the plant does best when exposed to at least 4-6 hours of sunlight a day. It should be watered as needed to keep the soil moist, however avoid overwatering, as this may lead to root rot and other diseases. Additionally, Yellow Screwstem is intolerant to drought and prefers soil with good drainage. During the winter months, the plant can benefit from some partial or indirect sunlight to help grow strong and healthy.

pruning

Yellow Screwstem (Bartonia virginica) should be pruned in late winter or early spring to maintain a healthy shape and growth. Remove dead and weak stems using sharp pruners or hand shears. Make sure to disinfect your tools in between cuts to avoid spreading diseases within the plant. Prune lightly, removing no more than 1-third of the stems per year, as too much pruning can damage the plant. When pruning off more than 1-third of the stems, it can cause the plant to become thin or overly dense. Pruning will also help promote more blooms and new growth.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Bartonia virginica typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

Bartonia virginica typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.