SafePlants

Threadleaf Brodiaea (Brodiaea filifolia)

Brodiaea filifolia, commonly known as threadleaf brodiaea, is a rare flowering plant species belonging to the cluster-lily genus.

Considerations for Pets

• The common name and the morphology of thin leaves (threadleaf) may present a minor ingestion hazard to some pets.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Brodiaea filifolia S. Watson
• Common Names: Threadleaf brodiaea, Thread-leaved Brodiaea
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Family: Liliaceae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonym: Hookera filifolia (S. Watson) Greene

Distribution and Habitat

• Brodiaea filifolia is endemic to southern California.
• It grows in grasslands and vernal pools. Examples of locations are Alta Loma Creek, San Marcos Hills, and Thibodo Ranch.

Ecological Role

• The Threadleaf Brodiaea is on the U.S. Endangered Species List and is classified as threatened in California.

Morphological Characteristics

• Brodiaea filifolia is a perennial herb (forb) that grows from a bulb.
• It is a monocot.
• The scape (flower stalk) is slender, measuring 20-30 cm.
• Flowers are 14-20 mm, perianth violet-reddish purple, tube narrowly cylindrical, 6-8 mm, transparent, splitting in fruit, lobes widely.

Habitat

• Found in areas with bunchgrass prairie, growing alongside chocolate lilies and California poppies.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• It is found in the same habitats as other sensitive plant species, such as San Diego thornmint.

Further Information

• Check other web resources for Brodiaea filifolia S. Watson at the Flora of North America.
• Discover Life offers information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Brodiaea filifolia.