Contents
Description
Dichelostemma is a type of wildflower that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is a genus of about 10 species of bulbous perennials that are native to North America, particularly in California and Oregon. The plant is commonly known as “Blue Dicks” or “Wild Hyacinth” due to the blue color of its flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Dichelostemma |
Appearance
Dichelostemma has narrow leaves that are about 30cm long and 5mm wide. The flowers are borne in dense clusters atop a tall, slender stalk that can grow up to 50cm tall. Each flower is tubular-shaped, about 2.5cm long, and has six blue-violet petals that are fused at the base. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and have a delicate fragrance.
Care Guide
Dichelostemma is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:- Water: Dichelostemma prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in early spring.- Soil: Dichelostemma prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil that is slightly acidic.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Dichelostemma is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dichelostemma is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as botrytis and rust. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant is grown in well-drained soil and avoid over-watering. Pests such as aphids and spider mites may also attack the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dichelostemma is native to North America and can be found in open woodlands, grassy slopes, and meadows. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is commonly grown as an ornamental and is popular for its beautiful blue-violet flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dichelostemma be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Dichelostemma can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.
Q: When is the best time to plant Dichelostemma?
A: The best time to plant Dichelostemma bulbs is in the fall, before the first frost.
Q: How long do Dichelostemma flowers last?
A: Dichelostemma flowers usually last for about two weeks.
Q: Can Dichelostemma be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Dichelostemma can be grown from seed, but it may take several years for the plants to bloom.
Related Plants
– Allium- Camassia- Fritillaria- Iris- Narcissus
References
– “Dichelostemma pulchellum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d668.- “Blue Dicks (Dichelostemma capitatum).” USDA NRCS, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DICA3.- “Dichelostemma.” Pacific Bulb Society, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Dichelostemma.
