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bluedicks
Scientific Name: Dichelostemma capitatum
Family: Liliaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Dichelostemma capitatum: Blue Dicks, Purplehead, Wild Hyacinth
Dichelostemma capitatum, commonly known as Blue Dicks, is a charming wildflower found in the western United States. Other common names include Purplehead and Wild Hyacinth. The name "Blue Dicks" can be quite attention-grabbing, leading to many inquiries about its origin.
Considerations for Pets
- While one source indicates Dichelostemma pulchellum (synonym for Dichelostemma capitatum) is non-toxic to dogs, it's essential to verify this information with a veterinarian or other expert for your specific pet.
- Has grass-like leaves that grow to 15 inches in length.
Considerations for Children
- The plant has grass-like leaves.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Dichelostemma capitatum
- Synonym: Dichelostemma pulchellum
- Family: Asparagaceae (formerly Amaryllidaceae; older books may still list it as Amaryllis)
- Subspecies: Dichelostemma capitatum ssp. capitatum
- Note: The genus name Dichelostemma is derived from Greek, referencing appendages on the stamens.
Distribution and Habitat
- Dichelostemma capitatum is found in the western and southwestern USA.
- Specific locations mentioned include: Arizona, California, Oregon, Utah, and New Mexico.
- It thrives in grasslands and foothills, often below 7000 ft.
- One specific location mentioned is the foothills surrounding Yosemite.
Morphological Characteristics
- It is an herbaceous perennial, growing up to 30 inches in height.
- The plant features grass-like leaves, which can grow up to 15 inches long.
- Flowers grow in a dense, head-like cluster (an umbel) at the end of a slender, leafless stem that can reach 2 feet in length.
- Flowers are typically purple-blue but can occasionally be white. Each flower has six fertile parts.
- Bracts are generally dark purple or striped in ssp. capitatum.
Ecological Role
- It's mentioned as being underused in native gardens despite being easy to grow.
Interactions With Other Organisms
- Swallowtail butterflies are known to visit the flowers.
Quirky Facts
- The corms (underground stems) are edible and have a sweet flavor, whether eaten raw or cooked. The flowers can also be a pretty addition to salads.
- Blue Dicks are considered easy to grow, even in native gardens.
Resources
- Dave's Garden is mentioned as a community where gardeners share tips and ideas.
- CalPhotos is a resource for seeing photos of the plant.
- Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Dichelostemma capitatum.
- Wikimedia Commons hosts images of the plant.