Ithuriel’s Spear

(Triteleia laxa)

Ithuriel’s Spear (Triteleia laxa)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Triteleia laxa, commonly known as Ithuriel’s Spear, is a perennial herb native to the grasslands, open woodlands, and chaparral of California, with its range extending to southwestern Oregon. It typically grows to a height of 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) and is known for its tall, naked stem that bears a cluster of smaller stalks, each showcasing a striking purple or blue flower. The flowers are tubular and open into a sharply six-pointed star, blooming in late spring to early summer. The plant’s corm is edible, with a taste and culinary use similar to that of a potato.

Ithuriel’s Spear is appreciated for its unique star-shaped flowers and ease of maintenance, making it a charming addition to rock gardens, borders, and native plant gardens. It is also used for naturalizing in meadows. In cultivation, it thrives in full sun and requires low to medium amounts of water, preferring well-drained soils. While it is adaptable to various soil types, it performs best in sandy or loamy soils. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-10. It is relatively free from serious pests and diseases, but overwatering can lead to rot. It is important to note that while the corm is edible, it should only be consumed when positively identified to avoid confusion with toxic species.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Herb
  • Height: 0.2-1.7 feet
  • Width: 0.2-0.8 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Blue, Pink, Purple
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Border Plant, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Native to grasslands, open woodlands, and chaparral of California and southwestern Oregon

Other Names

Common Names: Triplet-Lily, Grassnut, Common Triteleia, Ithuriel’s-Spear, Common Triteleia, Blaue Triteleie, Blå Bukettlilja

Scientific Names: , Triteleia laxa, Brodiaea laxa, Triteleia angustiflora, Brodiaea laxa var. candida, Brodiaea candida, Brodiaea laxa var. nimia, Brodiaea laxa var. tracyi, Hookera laxa, Milla laxa

GBIF Accepted Name: Triteleia laxa Benth.