Bird's Eye
gilia tricolor
Also known as: ["Tricolor gilia","Bird's-eye gilia"]
Overview
A delicate annual wildflower native to western North America, known for its small, star-shaped flowers in shades of purple, yellow, and white.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Polemoniales |
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Genus: | Gilia |
| Botanical Name: | Gilia tricolor |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. A mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix works well in containers.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season, particularly after flowering or if the plant becomes leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Remove only faded blooms and minimal stem trimming to shape the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily) is ideal, though partial shade in the hottest part of the day can prevent scorching in intense summer conditions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in summer to prevent leaf burn. Outdoor placement is preferred, but ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; supplement with grow lights if natural light is insufficient.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that doesn’t retain too much moisture; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration for root health.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat above 80°F (27°C).
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when plants are dormant; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Seeds are the most reliable method for this annual species.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For seeds: Sow on the surface, press lightly, and keep moist. For cuttings: Take a 3–4 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone (optional), plant in medium, and maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; sow seeds in late summer or early fall for overwintering, or in early spring.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), humid environment with bright, indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand, or cactus mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks under optimal conditions. Stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks and may take an additional month to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster germination/ rooting; thin seedlings if overcrowded.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers by pinching or cutting just above a leaf node. Trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is needed. Focus on removing spent flowers to encourage reblooming and cutting back leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Hand pruners or sharp scissors for deadheading and light trimming.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers promptly; trim leggy stems; sanitize tools between cuts; avoid heavy pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just as new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot (e.g., from a 4-inch to a 6-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead or crowded roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot annually in early spring if grown in containers, as Gilia tricolor is an annual and may not require repotting if grown as a garden plant.
Checklist
Choose a pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter or dormant periods. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; leaf necrosis in frost damage.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage if soil freezes. Prolonged cold may lead to leaf drop or death of tender parts.
Solution: Provide frost protection with mulch or row covers in cold climates. Ensure good soil drainage to prevent root rot from cold, wet conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering. Plants may enter a temporary dormancy to conserve energy.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to keep roots cool. Avoid fertilizing during heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGilia tricolor is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts on felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicGilia tricolor is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects or physiological impacts on canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicGilia tricolor is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I grow Gilia tricolor from seeds?
A: Sow seeds directly into well-drained soil in early spring or fall, as they prefer cooler temperatures. Lightly cover the seeds and keep the soil moist until germination.
Q: Does Gilia tricolor attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: Is Gilia tricolor suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but ensure the pot has good drainage and is placed in a location with full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polemoniaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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