Status:
valid
Authors:
(Benth.) Alph.Wood
Source:
wcs
Year:
1868
Citation Micro:
Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Philadelphia 20: 173 (1868)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000765266
Common Names
- Capitate Dichelostemma
- Tasman Flax Lily
- Blue Flax Lily
Description
Dichelostemma capitatum (also called 'Blue Dicks' and 'Blue-eyed Grass', among many other common names) is a perennial herbaceous plant native to western North America. It grows in dry, open areas, such as grasslands and chaparral, and is characterized by its blue-green leaves and its small, blue-purple flowers.
Uses & Benefits
Dichelostemma capitatum is a perennial herb with edible leaves and stems. The leaves are used in salads and soups, and the stems can be boiled and eaten. The plant is also used as an ornamental in gardens and landscapes.
Cultivars, Varieties & Sub-species
Dichelostemma capitatum sub. pauciflorum (Torr.) Keator
Dichelostemma capitatum sub. capitatum
Dichelostemma capitatum sub. lacuna-vernalis (L.W.Lenz) D.W.Taylor
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Dichelostemma capitatum has small, white flowers with yellow anthers. The seeds are small, black and round. The seedlings have narrow, linear leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Dichelostemma capitatum is a small, evergreen perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm tall. It is native to California and is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. It prefers full sun and well-drained soils. Propagation is by division or seed. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained, sandy soil in early spring. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Germination usually takes about two weeks.
Where to Find Dichelostemma capitatum
Dichelostemma capitatum can be found in California and the Pacific Northwest of the United States.
Dichelostemma capitatum FAQ
What is the scientific name of Dichelostemma capitatum?
Dichelostemma capitatum
What is the common name of Dichelostemma capitatum?
Blue Dicks
What are the uses of Dichelostemma capitatum?
It is used for ornamental purposes, as well as for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Species in the Dichelostemma genus
Species in the Asparagaceae family
Acanthocarpus canaliculatus,
Acanthocarpus humilis,
Acanthocarpus parviflorus,
Acanthocarpus preissii,
Acanthocarpus robustus,
Acanthocarpus rupestris,
Acanthocarpus verticillatus,
Agave acicularis,
Agave acklinicola,
Agave ajoensis,
Agave aktites,
Agave albescens,
Agave albomarginata,
Agave americana,
Agave angustiarum,
Agave angustifolia,
Agave anomala,
Agave antillarum,
Agave apedicellata,
Agave applanata,
Agave arizonica,
Agave arubensis,
Agave asperrima,
Agave atrovirens,
Agave attenuata,
Agave aurea,
Agave avellanidens,
Agave bahamana,
Agave bicolor,
Agave boldinghiana,
Agave bovicornuta,
Agave braceana,
Agave bracteosa,
Agave brevipetala,
Agave brevispina,
Agave brittoniana,
Agave brunnea,
Agave bulliana,
Agave cacozela,
Agave cajalbanensis,
Agave calodonta,
Agave capensis,
Agave caribaeicola,
Agave cerulata,
Agave chamelensis,
Agave chiapensis,
Agave chrysantha,
Agave chrysoglossa,
Agave cocui,
Agave collina,