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bluedicks

Scientific Name: Dichelostemma capitatum ssp. pauciflorum

Family: Liliaceae

Category: Monocot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Dichelostemma capitatum: A Closer Look

Dichelostemma capitatum, commonly known as Blue Dicks, is a captivating wildflower found in the western United States. Its vibrant blooms and ease of cultivation make it a delightful addition to native gardens.

Considerations for Pets

  • Although one source lists Dichelostemma pulchellum (synonym for D. capitatum) as non-toxic to dogs, further research is always recommended to ensure the safety of your pets.

Common Names and Synonyms

  • Scientific Name: Dichelostemma capitatum
  • Common Names: Blue Dicks, Purplehead, Wild Hyacinth, Desert Hyacinth
  • Synonyms: Dichelostemma pulchellum
  • Alternate Spellings: Brodiaea, Brodiea, Brodeia (though Brodiaea may also refer to a different genus)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Family: Asparagaceae (formerly Liliaceae and Amaryllidaceae)
  • Subspecies: Dichelostemma capitatum ssp. capitatum
  • Older books may list it in the Amaryllis family.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Found in the western and southwestern USA, including Arizona, California, Oregon, Utah, and New Mexico.
  • Grows in grasslands and foothills, often below 7000 ft.
  • Specific locations mentioned include the foothills surrounding Yosemite, Rockville Hills Park in Fairfield, and areas near Fort Scott.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Herbaceous perennial with grass-like leaves that can reach up to 15 inches in length.
  • Flowers are typically purple-blue, but can occasionally be white. They grow in a dense cluster (umbel) of 6 to 15 flowers at the end of a slender stem, which can reach up to 2 feet long.
  • The plant can grow to 30 inches in height.
  • The stem is erect and straight.
  • Bracts are generally dark purple or striped in the subspecies capitatum.

Quirky Facts

  • The genus name Dichelostemma is derived from a Greek word referencing appendages on the stamens.
  • The corms (bulblike underground stems) are edible and have a sweet flavor, consumed raw or cooked. The flowers are also edible and can be added to salads.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Attracts butterflies, such as Swallowtail Butterflies.

Further Information

  • Dave's Garden: A community for sharing gardening tips and ideas.
  • Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Dichelostemma capitatum.
  • CalPhotos: A database of plant photographs.