SafePlants

Brodiaea coronaria and Subspecies: A Botanical Overview

This page provides an overview of Brodiaea coronaria, particularly focusing on the subspecies rosea, commonly known as Indian Valley Brodiaea.

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions a low allergen potential.

Considerations for Children

• The plant is a bulb, which could be of interest to children.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Brodiaea coronaria (Salisb.) Engl.
• Subspecies: Brodiaea coronaria subsp. rosea (Greene) Niehaus
• Common Names: Crown Brodiaea, Indian Valley Brodiaea, Harvest Brodiaea, Indian Potato, Californian Hyacinth
• Family: Themidaceae (formerly Alliaceae and Liliaceae are also mentioned)
• Synonyms:
  • Brodiaea grandiflora Sm.
  • Brodiaea rosea (Greene) Baker
  • Hookera coronaria
  • Brodiaea coronaria ssp. rosea
  • Brodiaea rosea
  • Hookera rosea Greene

Distribution and Habitat

• Brodiaea coronaria is native to western North America, from British Columbia down the west coast.
• Brodiaea coronaria subsp. rosea (Indian Valley Brodiaea) is endemic to a small region in the Inner North Coast of California.
• Specific locations mentioned include the Indian Valley/Walker Ridge Recreation Area, Indian Valley Reservoir in Lake County, California, Bear Valley, and areas north of Highway 20 on the eastern edge of Lake County.
• Habitat: Grassy areas on coastal cliffs.

Morphological Characteristics

• Brodiaea coronaria and its subspecies are perennial herbs that grow from bulbs.
• Height: Approximately 10 inches (0.25 m).
• Flower Type: Hermaphrodite

Ecological Role

• Mentioned as a rare plant found alongside other species like the Adobe Lily.
• Grows alongside manzanita, oak, and pine trees.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The text notes that the Indian Valley area is also home to blacktail deer, black bear, and wild turkey.
• Information implies the plant provides a habitat for wildlife and insects, supporting biodiversity.

Historical/Traditional uses

• Every spring the Maidu of American and Indian Valleys would congregate at this area to harvest camass and tules in the wet marshes, brodiaea, and yampa on the low rises.

Further Information

• TSN (Taxonomic Serial Number) for Brodiaea coronaria ssp. rosea: 523694
• Element Code: PMLIL0C032
• Rick York and CNPS (California Native Plant Society) are acknowledged for a photo of Indian Valley Brodiaea.