Dichelostemma Capitatum

Description

Dichelostemma Capitatum, commonly known as the Blue Dicks, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asparagaceae. It is native to the western United States and grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woods. This perennial plant produces a cluster of blue-violet flowers on a leafless stem that can grow up to 2 feet tall. The flowers bloom from February to May and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Blue Dicks plant grows from a bulb that is around 1 inch in diameter. It produces a leafless stem that can grow up to 2 feet tall, topped with a cluster of blue-violet flowers. The flowers have six petals and are arranged in a compact head. The plant’s leaves are basal and linear, about 6 to 12 inches long and 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide. The leaves are often withered by the time the flowers bloom.

Care Guide

The Blue Dicks plant is easy to care for and does not require much maintenance. Here are some tips for taking care of Dichelostemma Capitatum:

• Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not need much watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
• Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary for this plant.
• Soil: The Blue Dicks plant prefers well-draining soil with good organic content. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clayey soils.
• Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well.
• Hardiness Zones: The Blue Dicks plant is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Blue Dicks plant is not commonly affected by pests or diseases. However, here are some of the issues that may occur:

• Snails and slugs: These pests may eat the leaves and flowers of the plant.
• Fungal diseases: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot.
• Spider mites: These pests may cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves.

Habitat

The Blue Dicks plant is native to the western United States and grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and open woods. It is commonly found in California, Oregon, and Washington.

Question and Answer

Here are some commonly asked questions about the Blue Dicks plant:

• Q: Is the Blue Dicks plant poisonous?
• A: No, this plant is not poisonous.
• Q: Can I grow the Blue Dicks plant in a container?
• A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as it has good drainage.
• Q: Can I divide the bulbs of the Blue Dicks plant?
• A: Yes, you can divide the bulbs of this plant in the fall after the foliage has died back.
• Q: How often should I water the Blue Dicks plant?
• A: Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, about once a week.

Related Plants

Here are some plants that are related to the Blue Dicks:

• Dichelostemma Congestum
• Dichelostemma Idanum
• Dichelostemma Multiflorum
• Dichelostemma Pulchellum

References

• “Dichelostemma capitatum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 24 June 2021.
• “Dichelostemma capitatum.” USDA Plants Database. United States Department of Agriculture, n.d. Web. 24 June 2021.
• Pennisi, Bill. “Blue Dicks.” Sunset Magazine, 20 Mar. 2009. Web. 24 June 2021.