Clinton's Lily, Bluebead Lily
clintonia borealis
Also known as: ["Bluebead Lily","Adder's Tongue","Clinton Lily"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to eastern North America, known for its delicate yellow flowers and blue berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Genus: | Clintonia |
| Botanical Name: | Clintonia borealis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden, shaded understory, or partially shaded garden bed
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, acidic, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter like peat moss or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems and leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; prefers dappled sunlight or bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter conditions; protect from direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch; ideal for shaded garden beds or north-facing indoor locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide filtered light; adjust based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
moist, rich, well-drained, acidic soil
pH: Acidic, pH 4.5–6.0.
Use acidic soil mix; ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions.
Keep cool in summer; protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; use balanced formulas; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect seeds after flowering.
- Sow shallowly.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Divide rhizomes in early spring.
- Replant divisions immediately.
Best Time: Early spring or after flowering when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light for seeds; similar conditions for rhizome division.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite for rhizome division.
Hormone
Not typically required for seed propagation; rooting hormone may aid rhizome division.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate; rhizome division can establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Pruners, small trowel, rooting hormone (optional), seed trays.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in fall for spring germination; divide rhizomes carefully to avoid damage.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off unwanted growth with clean cuts just above a leaf node or natural branching point.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh the soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent standing water.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and early summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss, compost, or leaf mold to enhance acidity and drainage; incorporate perlite for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in excessive cold.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold can damage roots and slow growth; may enter dormancy but should not freeze.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a cool but frost-free location; avoid overwatering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and early summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Clintonia borealis, particularly the berries. While not severely toxic, ingestion can cause discomfort and should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Clintonia borealis berries can result in mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines, but caution should still be exercised to prevent accidental consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicClintonia borealis, commonly known as Clinton's lily or bluebead lily, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The berries, while not highly toxic, can lead to discomfort and should not be consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Clintonia borealis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Clintonia borealis grow naturally?
A: It is native to the forests of eastern North America.
Q: Does Clintonia borealis require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade or full shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Colchicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
