Blue Dicks
dichelostemma capitatum
Also known as: ["Brodiaea capitata","Dichelostemma idaeum"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial native to western North America, known for its clusters of blue-purple flowers on tall stalks.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Genus: | Dichelostemma |
| Botanical Name: | Dichelostemma capitatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, meadows, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light cleanup in late winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Allow soil to dry out between waterings; water deeply to encourage deep root growth; adjust frequency based on season and weather conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend heavy soils before planting; avoid waterlogged conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); thrives in Mediterranean climates with mild summers and cool winters.
Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during active growth, none in dormancy
Fertilize sparingly; apply before active growth; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Division of bulbs or bulbils; occasionally by seed.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully dig up bulbs.
- Separate offsets.
- Replant at the same depth.
- Water lightly.
Best Time: After flowering in late spring or early summer when bulbs are dormant.
Environment
Warm, dry conditions for bulb division; keep soil moist but not waterlogged for seeds.
Medium
Well-drained potting mix with added perlite or sand; can also be planted directly in garden beds.
Hormone
Not typically required for bulb division.
Timeline
Bulbs may flower in 1–2 years after division; seed propagation takes 2–3 years to flower.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide bulbs every 3–4 years to prevent overcrowding; plant bulbils immediately after separation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut flower stalks at the base; trim foliage only if completely dead or diseased.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove spent flower stalks to encourage bulb development; trim dead foliage in late winter.
Tools
Hand pruners, scissors.
Checklist
Remove spent flowers; trim dead foliage; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall after dormancy begins.
Pot Size
Use a pot one size larger if repotting; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently lift bulbs; remove old soil; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-drained soil.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become overcrowded or every 3–4 years; not typically needed in garden beds.
Checklist
Check for overcrowding; use fresh soil; maintain planting depth; ensure drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, avoiding foliage; ensure water penetrates the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and early summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in late summer and fall; water sparingly or not at all in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; delayed flowering or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and flowering; prolonged frost may damage foliage or bulbs.
Solution: Plant in well-drained soil to prevent bulb rot; mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers or move containers indoors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause foliage to yellow or wilt; may lead to reduced flowering or bulb dormancy issues.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, as Dichelostemma capitatum is not heavy feeder; discontinue in late summer.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicDichelostemma capitatum is toxic to cats, with the bulbs and flowers posing the greatest risk. The plant contains toxic compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation and systemic effects, potentially leading to serious health complications in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDichelostemma capitatum is toxic to dogs, particularly the bulbs and flowers, which contain compounds that can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity. Ingestion may result in significant discomfort and health risks for canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDichelostemma capitatum contains toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and mild systemic effects upon ingestion. The bulbs and flowers are the most toxic parts, containing alkaloids that may disrupt normal physiological functions.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I plant Dichelostemma capitatum bulbs?
A: Plant bulbs in fall, 3-4 inches deep and spaced 4-6 inches apart in well-drained soil.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is Dichelostemma capitatum deer resistant?
A: Yes, it is generally deer resistant due to its bulbous nature and taste.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asparagaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
