Dwarf Brodiaea

(Brodiaea terrestris)

Dwarf Brodiaea (Brodiaea terrestris)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Brodiaea terrestris image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Brodiaea terrestris, commonly known as dwarf brodiaea, is a perennial herb native to various habitats in Baja California, California and Oregon, including grasslands, open woodlands, and chaparral. It is particularly prevalent in the coastal ranges from the Oregon border to San Diego and in the central Sierra Nevada. This plant typically grows from underground corms, reaching a modest height of 4-18 inches (10-45 cm). The narrow, grass-like leaves emerge in a basal rosette, and in late spring to early summer, it produces clusters of small, star-shaped, purple to blue flowers atop slender, leafless stalks. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators such as bees.

Dwarf brodiaea is valued for its low maintenance and drought tolerance, making it a suitable choice for rock gardens, native plant gardens, and wildflower meadows. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils. While it is drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Dwarf brodiaea is not commonly affected by diseases or pests, but it can be sensitive to overwatering, which may cause the corms to rot.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb, Bulb
  • Height: 0.5-1 feet
  • Width: 0.5-1 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Blue, Pink, Purple, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Border Plant, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Rock Garden

Natural Habitat

native to various habitats in Baja California, California and Oregon, including grasslands, open woodlands, and chaparral

Other Names

Common Names: Earth Brodiaea

Scientific Names: , Brodiaea terrestris, Hookera terrestris, Hookera terrestris,

GBIF Accepted Name: