Red Dollars

dichelostemma congestum

Also known as: ["Red Dollar Plant","Clustered Brodiaea"]

Family: Asparagaceae Genus: Dichelostemma Category: Flowers

Overview

A bulbous perennial native to western North America, known for its clusters of star-shaped, reddish-purple flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Asparagales
Family: Asparagaceae
Genus: Dichelostemma
Botanical Name: Dichelostemma congestum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or naturalized areas in temperate climates
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
  • 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; cactus or bulb-specific mix works well.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering; as needed to remove dead or damaged leaves.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or spent parts.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light per day.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft or mushy bulbs, or moldy soil indicate poor drainage or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in dormant periods.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with organic matter for nutrients.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C); tolerates cooler nights during dormancy.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain consistent cool nights during dormancy.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during spring and summer

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding during dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Division of bulbs or offsets; occasionally by seed.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Separate offsets from parent bulb.
  2. Plant at the same depth as the parent.
  3. Water lightly until established.

Best Time: Late summer or early fall after flowering; when bulbs are dormant but preparing for growth.

Environment

Cool, shaded environment with high humidity for initial rooting; gradually acclimate to outdoor conditions.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also be propagated in situ in garden beds.

Hormone

Not necessary for bulb division; optional for seeds to encourage germination.

Timeline

Bulbs may flower in the first season; seeds take 1–3 years to mature.

Tools Needed

Sharp, sterile knife or shears, small trowel, pots or garden space.

Quick Tips

Plant offsets immediately after division; ensure proper spacing for airflow; protect from extreme weather during establishment.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut flower stalks at the base; trim yellowed or damaged leaves; avoid cutting into healthy foliage.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing spent flower stalks and dead foliage to encourage bulb health.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Remove spent flowers; trim damaged leaves; clean tools before use.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Late summer or early fall, after flowering and before dormancy.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure adequate drainage holes.

Method

Gently remove bulbs; inspect for damage; replant at the same depth in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; best when bulbs outgrow their current container.

Checklist

Choose a larger pot; use fresh soil; handle bulbs carefully; water sparingly post-repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf discoloration, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop in fluctuating temperatures.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy; prolonged cold may lead to tissue damage.

Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid watering frozen soil.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or premature dormancy.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early in the day; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Dichelostemma congestum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Dichelostemma congestum can be caused by water stress, either from drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Dichelostemma congestum are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly basal rot, can affect Dichelostemma congestum due to fungal infections or excessive moisture, leading to bulb decay and plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest parts of Dichelostemma congestum. The effects are typically not severe but warrant monitoring.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing bulbs and roots. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Dichelostemma congestum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxicity is not life-threatening but may cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep bulbs and roots away from dogs. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Dichelostemma congestum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be uncomfortable.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
bulbs roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of bulbs and roots. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I plant Dichelostemma congestum bulbs?

A: Plant bulbs in fall, 3-4 inches deep and 4-6 inches apart in well-drained soil.

Q: Does Dichelostemma congestum require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Q: Are the flowers of Dichelostemma congestum fragrant?

A: No, the flowers are not typically fragrant.

Quick Reference
Family: Asparagaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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