Tolmie Star-tulip
calochortus tolmiei
Also known as: ["Tolmie's Mariposa Lily","Tolmie's Star-tulip"]
Overview
A perennial bulbous plant native to western North America, known for its star-shaped flowers with reflexed petals.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Liliales |
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Genus: | Calochortus |
| Botanical Name: | Calochortus tolmiei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, raised bed, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent bulb rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; remove dead leaves in late fall or early winter.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove dead or damaged parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates; adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak midday hours in summer; for indoor plants, place near east or west-facing windows.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a cactus or bulb-specific mix; avoid overwatering in heavy soils; amend with grit if drainage is poor.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in spring conditions; tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid placing near heat sources or drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding when plant enters dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula to avoid excessive foliage growth.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; division of bulbs can also be done after flowering.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For seeds: sow shallowly, keep moist, and provide stratification if needed.
- For division: carefully separate bulbs, replant immediately, and water gently.
Best Time: Spring, when the plant is actively growing; for seed, sow in late summer or early fall for natural stratification.
Environment
Warm (60–70°F or 15–21°C), humid environment with indirect light; protect from strong winds or direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or bulb fiber with perlite; for division, ensure each section has roots and a growth point.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can be used for division to encourage root development.
Timeline
Seeds may take 1–3 months to germinate and several years to mature; divisions will establish in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, small pots, seed starting mix, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Label seed trays to track varieties; keep divisions in shade for the first few weeks; use bottom heat to speed germination.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off spent flower stalks at the base; gently pull away dead leaves without cutting into healthy tissue.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flowers to encourage bulb development and tidying up dead foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp hand pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune after flowering; remove only dead or damaged parts; avoid cutting into bulb or crown.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Late summer or early fall, after foliage dies back but before winter dormancy.
Pot Size
Use a pot only slightly larger than the bulb cluster (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Carefully lift bulbs, gently separate any offsets, replant at the same depth with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when bulbs become crowded or every 3–4 years; avoid disturbing bulbs unnecessarily as they prefer to be undisturbed.
Checklist
Use fresh, well-draining soil; replant at the same depth; water sparingly after repotting; ensure good drainage holes.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.
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 allow excess to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring), reduce frequency in summer, and keep minimal in winter to mimic natural dormancy.
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 leaf burn in excessive heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold stress; wilting or mushy stems in overly warm, humid conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, causing growth cessation and potential root damage if frozen.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot in cold, wet soil.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and premature dormancy if not managed with adequate water and shade.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water early in the day to reduce evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season only; water before fertilizing; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize once a month during active growth (spring); avoid fertilizing in winter dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Calochortus tolmiei, especially the bulbs and roots, may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Calochortus tolmiei, particularly the bulbs and roots, can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCalochortus tolmiei, commonly known as Tolmie's Mariposa Lily, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The bulbs and roots are the most toxic parts of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Calochortus tolmiei grow?
A: It typically reaches 15–30 cm in height.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for this plant?
A: It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun, with a preference for cooler climates.
Q: Does it require special care during winter?
A: It is generally cold hardy but benefits from a layer of mulch in colder regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Liliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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