Position

Sun exposure:
Full sun
Aspect:
South facing, west facing
Position in border:
Middle

Soil

Well Drained / Light / Sandy

Native to Western USA and similar to alliums, ookow, Dichelostemma congestum, bears tight, long-lasting heads of pretty purple flowers on wiry stems. Like alliums it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, but has grassy foliage, which starts to die down as the flowers form.

Grow Dichelostemma congestum in a sheltered, sunny spot in well-drained soil. Be careful when cutting the flowers as the sap can irritate the skin. Not fully hardy, bulbs may need a protective mulch laid over them in winter in colder regions, or simply dig up and overwinter in a pot in a cool greenhouse.

Plant calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Plantyesyes
Flowersyesyes
Divideyesyes

Dichelostemma and wildlife

Dichelostemma is known for attracting bees. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.

Is known to attract Bees
Bees
Is not known to attract Beneficial insects
Beneficial insects
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Butterflies/​Moths
Butterflies/​Moths
Is not known to attract Other pollinators
Other pollinators

Is Dichelostemma poisonous?

Dichelostemma can be toxic. Its sap is toxic.

Toxic to:
Is known to attract Cats
Cats
Is known to attract Dogs
Dogs
Is known to attract People
People
No reported toxicity to:
Is not known to attract Birds
Birds
Is not known to attract Horses
Horses
Is not known to attract Livestock
Livestock
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